The National Forensic Authority (NFA) is a statutory body under the Ministry of Home Affairs and Internal Security. Previously, the Authority operated as the National Forensic Science Authority, an administrative department under the then Ministry of Home Affairs. The Authority was established under the National Forensic Act No.2 of 2020 and was operationalized on 5th May under SI No.36 of 2021. The primary mandate of the Authority is to regulate the practice of Forensic Science and Forensic Pathology
Vision and Mission
Vision
“A reliable and independent Forensic Services Regulator”
Through this Vision, NFA will endeavour to provide excellent regulatory services that promotes reliance on and acceptability of forensic services in the country. The Authority will operate autonomously as it executes its mandate and continues to advise Government on forensic matters.
Mission
“To provide quality forensic regulation services for enhanced carriage of justice in Zambia”
This Mission statement entails the Authority developing quality standards for provision of forensic services, monitoring adherence to adopted standards by forensic facilities and promote public awareness and understanding of forensic matters. In addition, the Authority will engage stakeholders on conducting forensic research and propose improvements to the conduct and provision of forensic services, among others. It is anticipated that these efforts will enable the Authority to contribute to enhanced carriage of justice.
Values and Functions
Values
The operations of National Forensic Authority and conduct of staff are anchored on the following core values
Integrity- we are honest and ethical in the execution of our mandate.
Transparency- we exhibit openness in the execution of our mandate.
Accountability- We take responsibility for all our actions
Impartiality- We are committed to acting solely according to the merits of the case and invokes fairness in serving the public and the private sector.
Teamwork- We ensure a collaborative approach, both internally and externally for efficient and effective service delivery.
Diligence- We are thorough in the manner in which we regulate forensic
Functions
- Regulate forensic service providers;
- Promote integrity of forensic services;
- Monitor and make proposals on the conduct and performance of forensic analysis;
- Monitor compliance of forensic ethical and privacy matters;
- Propose minimum quality standards to be implemented and maintained in performing forensic analysis;
- Promote public accountability and transparency with respect to performing forensic analysis;
- Promote public awareness and understanding of forensic matters;
- Facilitate the carrying out of forensic research;
- Develop and approve protocols of testing and examination methods; and
- Advise the Minister on matters relating to forensic science and forensic pathology.
Strategic Plan
The National Forensic Authority 2023-2026 Strategic Plan is anchored on two themes; Forensic Regulation and Operations and Goverance.The Plan is focused on six focus strategic objectives; Improve regulations of Forensic science and Forensic pathology practice; Improve stakeholder collaboration; Improve financial management; Improve human capital innovation and Improve service delivery logistics.
Click here to view the 2023-2026 Strategic Plan.
