IF you think we are not paying well in government, stop and look for other things, says Copperbelt permanent secretary Bright Nundwe. And Nundwe says President Edgar Lungu is expected on the Copperbelt for a two-day working visit before he travels to New York for a summit.

Addressing journalists at his office yesterday morning, Nundwe reiterated his call for transparency in the use of public and donor funds.

“It is a friendly warning to government officials, use the funds prudently and enjoy the job. Don’t dare to take donor funds. Three weeks ago, I told my colleagues (accountants) to be content. We want to run a smarter province. Be content… If you think we are not paying well in government stop it and look for other things,” Nundwe said.

He emphasised the need for people to live within their means.

“President Edgar Lungu pays high premium to the fight against corruption. Let us account for funds. We don’t want to see people getting arrested. Government is striving to make money and can’t have a crop of people stealing. It should not take the President. If it’s procurement, follow the procedures. Fighting corruption starts with individuals. All the civil servants should know that the President means well. That is why he goes out of the country to source for funds to improve the lives of the people. Let us help the President. President Edgar Lungu will never tolerate corruption,” Nundwe said.

He also said President Lungu’s visit to the Copperbelt was very important.

“The President is coming on Friday for a two-day working visit. This visit is very important for the province. This project at the Kafulafuta dam is very important in improving the water and sanitation services to the people of the Copperbelt. This dam is at the value of US$449 million. This project will help a lot of farmers on the Copperbelt,” said Nundwe.

“Then on Saturday, the President will be part of the 70th anniversary of the World Council of Churches and officially open the 31st General Conference of the Council of Churches in Zambia. The President loves God very much. He will leave on Saturday for Lusaka and then proceed to New York for a summit.”