367 out of 371 entrants have graduated from Lilayi Police Training College after a vigorous 6 months training under the department of Immigration cohort of 2024.
Minister of Home Affairs and Internal Security, Jack Mwiimbu says the Immigration Department plays a crucial role in Zambia’s Security system through the maintenance of internal security via border Immigration management.
Mr Mwiimbu said that there is need for intensified operations on illegal immigrants especially in the newly discovered mining areas in the country.
The Minister was speaking when he officiated at the Department of Immigration cohort of 2024 graduation, where 367 graduated as Immigration Assistants.
Mr Mwiimbu also added that there is an urgent need to uplift the working conditions of officers in the department, especially the lower ranks.
“I have gone around some remotest parts of the country and I agree that something needs to be done,” he said.
He emphasized that the government will hastily study the approved Job Evaluation and Regrading (JERG) as well as support the recommendations submitted.
The Minister stated that over the past two years, the government has recruited 789 immigration assistants in addition to border guards.
“Due to the tourism target of three million set for this year, the country will implement visa waivers for more countries this year, therefore, there is need for concerted efforts in the fight against illegal migrants,” he said.
Mr Mwiimbu has urged the officers to desist from corrupt activities saying the Government has zero tolerance to corruption.
And Director General of Immigration, Japhet Lishomwa revealed that the curriculum for the basic immigration course has been revised to ensure effectiveness in the service.
Mr Lishomwa assured everyone that the graduating assistants are ready to serve as they have adequately mastered the tapestry of modern migration management.
He also thanked the Government for the continued support in ensuring challenges faced by the department are looked into.
Earlier, Divisional Commander, Geofrey Mwanza, reminded the graduating officers to uphold integrity in their line of duty.
He also congratulated the few awarded graduating officers saying the training was tough. (ZANIS).
