The 2023 Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI) by Transparency International shows that many African countries still have a long way to go in addressing corruption.
Development Diaries reports that Equatorial Guinea (17), South Sudan (13) and Somalia (11) scored the lowest in the ranking, with no sign of improvement.
This is quite unfortunate because corruption impacts the most vulnerable, who depend primarily on public services in these countries.
Sub-Saharan Africa continues to grapple with extreme poverty as a result of corruption in governance. According to World Bank statistics, about 462 million people in the area were still living in extreme poverty as of 2023.
Equatorial Guinea has often ranked low on this index, indicating a high level of perceived corruption.
Factors contributing to corruption in Equatorial Guinea include a lack of transparency, weak institutions, and an overreliance on oil revenue, which can create opportunities for corruption and mismanagement.
Efforts to address corruption have been made at times, including the establishment of anti-corruption institutions and the adoption of legal frameworks. However, the effectiveness of these measures may be hindered by various challenges, including political interference and a need for stronger enforcement mechanisms.
Corruption has been a longstanding challenge in South Sudan, impacting various sectors and contributing to governance issues. The country gained independence in 2011, but since then, it has faced significant political and economic challenges, with corruption being a major concern.
But the country’s parliament, in October 2023, passed the Southern Sudan Anti-Corruption Commission Act, 2009 (Amendment) Bill, granting the commission powers to investigate and prosecute individuals involved in corruption.
In Somalia, corruption has been a longstanding issue and has significantly affected its governance. The country’s institutions, including law enforcement agencies, judiciary, and public administration, are often weak and cannot effectively combat corruption.
Also, the absence of strong regulatory frameworks allows corruption to flourish.
To alleviate the growing challenge of poverty in sub-Saharan Africa, Development Diaries calls on African governments to prioritise the development and enforcement of anti-corruption policies and promote open and accountable governance.
Also, investing in education and awareness programmes to empower citizens with knowledge about their rights and the detrimental effects of corruption can stimulate public participation in holding officials accountable.
Finally, the Independent Anti-Corruption Commission (IACC) of Somalia, the Anti-Corruption Commission and the Civil Service Commission in South Sudan and other anti-corruption agencies must enhance their investigative and prosecutorial capacities through training programmes and modern technology.
Photo source: Ebrahim Hamid/AFP
