Transparency International: SSA countries have a long way to go in fight against corruption

Transparency International's Corruption Perception Index has revealed some concerning trends about sub-Saharan Africa's fight against corruption. The region has been identified as the lowest scoring area, with an average score of 33. This stark contrast can be seen when comparing it to countries like Denmark, which scored an impressive 90. The impact of corruption is far-reaching, affecting access to justice, public services, and even the business environment for investors on the continent. The 2020 report highlighted some key performers in Africa, such as Seashells, Cabo Verde, and Botswana, while also pointing out the poorest-performing countries like Equatorial Guinea, South Sudan, and Somalia. The average score of 11 for Somalia paints a grim picture of the challenges faced in the region. One of the key factors contributing to the region's struggle with corruption is the severe underfunding of public sectors over decades. This underfunding has been further exacerbated by illicit financial flows and widespread corruption. The lack of resources allocated to strengthening independent judicial institutions and public oversight authorities has directly impacted access to justice, with the ability to buy justice becoming a common occurrence. The need to improve the independence, transparency, and effectiveness of justice systems in sub-Saharan Africa is paramount to combating corruption. The data from Transparency International's index highlights a concerning trend globally, with strong democracies consistently outperforming flawed or authoritarian regimes. The decline in the democratic space, coupled with the stagnation in countries' progress, is a cause for alarm. Out of 180 countries surveyed, only 28 have shown improvement in their scores, while 34 countries have witnessed a decline. This lack of progress is particularly evident in Africa, which recently marked 20 years since the adoption of the Africa Union Convention on Prevention and Combating Corruption. Despite two decades of efforts, the region still faces significant obstacles in addressing corruption effectively. The interview with Robert Mwanyumba, Africa Regional Advocacy Coordinator and Regional Advisor for Southern Africa at Transparency International, shed light on the methodology behind the Corruption Perception Index. Mwanyumba explained that the index aggregates data from 13 different sources, drawing insights from experts and business people on the level of corruption in the public sector. While some may question the methodology, Mwanyumba emphasized the importance of focusing on the data's message rather than fixating on the specifics of the methodology. The data speaks to the challenges faced by African countries in delivering public services and ensuring justice for all citizens. As sub-Saharan Africa continues its battle against corruption, the need for increased funding in public sectors, efforts to curb illicit financial flows, and a commitment to strengthening justice systems are crucial steps in the right direction. By addressing these fundamental issues, countries in the region can work towards a more transparent and accountable governance system that benefits all citizens.