How to tackle corruption in South Africa

Corruption has plagued South Africa for years, hindering economic growth and perpetuating a cycle of poverty and inequality. Muhammad Ali, the managing director at Worldwide Industrial and Systems Engineering, proposed a potential solution to tackle this pervasive issue - implementing anti-corruption standards such as ISO 37001. In a recent interview with CNBC Africa's Godfrey Mutizwa, Ali discussed the importance of these standards in curbing corruption and the challenges faced in their adoption within the country. While the standards offer a framework for organizations to combat bribery and corruption, the key lies in effective implementation and enforcement. Ali emphasized the significance of having the right controls in place, including policies, processes, procedures, and communication plans to deter corrupt practices within organizations. He highlighted the role of international organizations such as ISO in setting global anti-bribery standards and the need for South Africa to align with these best practices. By conforming to these standards, organizations can create a culture of accountability and transparency, ultimately leading to a reduction in corrupt activities. Despite the potential benefits of anti-corruption standards, Ali acknowledged the challenges faced in their implementation. He noted the lack of engagement and buy-in from the political class, as well as the public sector's failure to adhere to these standards. Ali raised concerns about the disconnect between requiring service providers to comply with anti-corruption standards while overlooking the compliance of public sectors themselves. This discrepancy creates a loophole that undermines the effectiveness of the standards and perpetuates corrupt practices. Ali emphasized the need for consequences and accountability to drive compliance with anti-corruption standards. He cited examples from countries like Singapore and Botswana, where stringent penalties and swift justice systems effectively deterred corrupt behavior. By instilling a sense of responsibility and emphasizing the repercussions of unethical conduct, organizations and countries can strengthen their anti-corruption efforts. In light of South Africa's declining position on the corruption index, Ali urged a proactive approach to address the root causes of corruption. He called for a cultural shift towards transparency, ethical behavior, and adherence to anti-corruption standards. While there may be challenges in the implementation process, Ali emphasized the importance of persistence and collective action in combating corruption and rebuilding trust in South Africa's institutions. As South Africa grapples with the complex issue of corruption, the conversation sparked by Ali's insights serves as a catalyst for change. By promoting accountability, integrity, and adherence to international anti-corruption standards, the country can pave the way for a more sustainable and equitable future.