Introduction:

Africa is facing several challenges keeping it at the bottom line of globalization. Corruption is the main challenge. Although it is always in the public affairs management system throughout the world, it has widely spread in Africa, hindering the development of the continent’s countries. Corruption is not only a real obstacle to countries’ fair governance but also to achieving the Millennium Development Goals.

The consequences of corruption

Indeed, corruption is one of the main factors that hinder the emergence of fair governance in favor of countries. This phenomenon is a major challenge for developing countries and for the equitable distribution of the resources that are exploited, having a lasting impact on the development of our respective countries. It can thus have harmful consequences on the proper functioning of a country. As a result, it can be considered as one of the forms of economic and financial crime, alongside counterfeiting, drug trafficking and other crimes. Corruption is an abuse of power to satisfy private and particular interests. This scourge which threatens Africa must be fought with determination to put an end to the abuses of those who believe that the country’s resources belong to them. To definitively eradicate this phenomenon, it is essential to have strong justice and accountable officials.

Corruption is so widespread in Africa that it has affected almost all sectors. Its effects are numerous, notably on growth, the fight against poverty, access to basic social services, unemployment and human rights. We know that corruption destroys the foundations of development favorable to future generations. For example, diverting part of public aid hinders aid flows and reduces its socio-economic impact, while contributing to the worsening of the debt. With such practices, it becomes very difficult for African states to develop and build a bright future for the coming generations.

In a continent like Africa, where poverty is widespread, corruption allows a minority to exercise economic and political power over the majority through illicitly acquired means. Within our States, numerous more or less independent organizations and institutions are engaged in addressing corruption. To be effective, anti-corruption strategies must go upstream and focus more on the favorable conditions for the emergence of accountable political and governance systems, supporting the implementation of long-term political reforms.

Conclusion:

The corruption issue in Africa is essential in addressing the challenges of governance and the fight against poverty. It must stop being analyzed from an economic, commercial or judicial angle. This is a development problem, requiring strong political commitment, an integrated and multilateral approach, increased resources and reinforced consultation between actors on the ground.