As the African Union Advisory Board Against Corruption (AUABC) opens its 48th Ordinary Session, the shadow of corruption still looms large over Africa's progress.
The session not only marks an important moment in the fight against corruption, but it also symbolizes the end of a leadership era.
Seynabou Ndiaye Diakhate, Chairperson of the AUABC, who is concluding her tenure, delivered a powerful message of unity, resilience, and the critical need for collective effort in tackling corruption.
A Year of Challenges
The previous year was marked by significant challenges in the battle against corruption. From poor fiscal management to illicit financial flows, the continent continued to grapple with the economic and social repercussions of corrupt practices.
"Last year, we faced intense difficulties in our collective battle against corruption.
Its devastating impact was seen in poor fiscal administration, illicit financial flows, and economic criminal activities, affecting both individual nations and the continent at large," stated Chairperson Seynabou Ndiaye Diakhate in her opening remarks.
Corruption isn't just a financial issue; it corrodes the foundation of trust and governance. It undermines democracy, destabilizes societies, and deepens inequality—making it a vicious cycle that keeps Africa from realizing its full potential. The wealth of Africa, a continent rich in resources, paradoxically leaves its citizens impoverished, while a small elite continues to accumulate unimaginable wealth.
For Chairperson Seynabou Ndiaye Diakhate, this battle is not just a professional duty, but a call to secure Africa's future. She recognizes that corruption is not just an African problem, but one that has been exacerbated by external factors such as geopolitical divides and economic constraints.
These challenges, however, are not insurmountable, and progress is possible through collaboration and steadfast commitment.
The Need for a Collective Approach
One of the most poignant aspects of this session is the emphasis on collective action. As Vice Chairperson Pascoal Antonio Joaquim rightly stated,
"We are here for another session... I would like to highlight that we’re still here, we have not ended our term yet, so we will take advantage of our presence here to work." No one is here forever.
The work must transcend individual mandates and be seen as a collective responsibility. Whether elected or part of the Secretariat, every member has a role in ensuring that the anti-corruption agenda is not just discussed but actively pursued with concrete actions.
The AUABC’s efforts are crucial in advancing the African Union's anti-corruption agenda, but it requires more than just words. The commitment to transparency, accountability, and good governance must be backed by real, tangible results.
The Vice Chairperson’s message emphasizes the importance of leaving a legacy that future generations can build upon. "We must ensure that our effort is collective... without working together, we cannot succeed. Working together will help us achieve success," said Vice Chairperson Joaquim.
The board members’ ability to work together with a shared vision will determine the success of the anti-corruption framework that future leaders will inherit.
Strengthening Partnerships
Despite the challenges, the AUABC has made significant strides in fostering partnerships with organizations such as the African Development Bank, GIZ, and UNODC.
The African Union’s accession to the G20 further opens avenues for international collaboration.
These partnerships are vital in providing the technical, financial, and political support needed to combat corruption on the continent.
However, the Chairperson urges that these partnerships must go beyond symbolic gestures.
"The wealth and resources of Africa should serve its people, but too often, these resources are diverted into the hands of a few, leaving the majority scrambling for little. The fight against corruption is an imperative action which we all must collectively embark on as an institution," she asserted.
While the political and economic landscape poses obstacles, the AUABC’s role remains critical in guiding national and regional efforts toward building a stronger, more transparent Africa.
There is no shortage of resources, but there is a pressing need for better management and more responsible governance that benefits all Africans, not just a select few.
Moving Forward with Purpose
As we look ahead, the urgency of the task at hand cannot be overstated. The AUABC must continue to evolve, improve its strategies, and broaden its reach.
This is not just about fighting corruption; it is about ensuring Africa's resources are used for the betterment of its people. The next steps must involve more than policy; they must focus on creating real-world solutions that transform communities and economies across the continent.
The words of both Chairperson Seynabou Ndiaye Diakhate and Vice Chairperson Pascoal Antonio Joaquim serve as a timely reminder that while corruption is a persistent challenge, it is not insurmountable.
Through collective action, strong partnerships, and an unwavering commitment to the people of Africa, the AUABC can continue to pave the way for a brighter, more transparent future.
In the face of adversity, the resolve to push forward with integrity and solidarity will be the key to defeating corruption and realizing the potential of Africa.
This session, though it marks the end of a leadership term, also sets the stage for a new beginning. A new chapter in the fight against corruption, where unity, dedication, and collective action remain at the forefront.
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