A recent United Nations report has shed light on a grave issue plaguing Africa’s development—illicit financial flows, resulting in an annual loss of nearly US$89 billion. Mr. Raphael Godlove Ahenu, Secretary of the Sunyani chapter of the Local Accountability Network, disclosed the findings during a public forum organized by the Network in Sunyani, sponsored by the Coalition, to commemorate the 2023 African Union Anti-Corruption Day celebration.
Addressing the forum, Mr. Ahenu emphasized that tax evasion remained a major hindrance to Africa’s progress, with corruption acting as a persistent menace across various sectors, from politics and public administration to business and law enforcement. He stressed the need for decisive action from African leaders to combat corruption effectively, asserting that the continent could develop independently without relying on foreign aid if corruption was effectively tackled.
Drawing attention to the impact of corruption in Ghana and Africa as a whole, Mr. Ahenu urged younger generations to understand the detrimental effects of corruption on developing nations. He expressed concern over recurring misappropriation of public funds, leading to sub-standard infrastructure and inadequate amenities in many communities. Corruption in the public administration sector has also been a pressing issue, with civil servants demanding bribes for services that should be provided free of charge, hindering public service delivery and perpetuating a culture of corruption.
Highlighting the alarming situation in the business sector, Mr. Ahenu pointed out that bribery to secure contracts or gain preferential treatment undermines fair competition and stifles economic growth. In the face of these challenges, he called on young people in Africa to mobilize against corruption and urged African leaders to strengthen anti-corruption institutions by enhancing transparency and accountability.
Mr. Ahenu stressed the importance of prioritizing the enforcement of existing anti-corruption laws and called on the media and civil society organizations to proactively contribute to the fight against corruption in Africa.
