Corruption remains a major challenge in Africa, affecting economic growth and business integrity. At the 5th Africa Business Conference (ABEC), stakeholders emphasized how technology can play a key role in fighting corruption and promoting accountability.
The Role of Technology in Transparency
During the conference, Francesco Checchi, Team Lead at the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) Africa Anti-Corruption Hub, highlighted how digital tools are enhancing transparency. E-governance platforms allow citizens to track public service processes and verify official information. These advancements reduce opportunities for corruption and empower accountability.
Checchi stressed that technology has revolutionized governance by simplifying complex systems and increasing public awareness. This innovation is a vital step toward reducing corruption in both public and private sectors.
The Importance of Integrity for Investment
Patricia Aruwa, Director of the Directorate of Business Environment, represented the State Department for Investment Promotion at the event. She underscored that ethical practices are essential for creating an attractive investment climate. According to Aruwa, the cost of failing to address corruption far exceeds the effort required to uphold integrity.
The Kenyan government, she noted, is actively working to improve transparency and address integrity issues. These efforts aim to attract investments and build trust within the business community.
Corruption’s Impact on Africa’s Economy
ABEC Convener Fatma El Maawy shared shocking statistics on corruption’s toll on Africa. The continent loses approximately $140 billion annually to corruption, alongside $60 billion to illicit financial flows. These losses hinder economic growth and limit the region’s potential for prosperity.
The theme of this year’s conference, “A Brave New Africa: Business Growth in a Time of Economic Turbulence,” highlighted the urgent need for action. Over 200 participants, including business leaders and policymakers, attended to discuss solutions to this pressing issue.
Private Sector’s Role in Fighting Corruption
Jacqueline Mugo, CEO of the Federation of Kenya Employers, addressed how corruption negatively affects businesses. She explained that it raises operational costs, discourages investments, and tarnishes reputations. Mugo urged the private sector to adopt ethical practices as the foundation for long-term growth.
Kenya Airways Chief Human Resources Officer Tom Shivo and Safaricom Chief Corporate Security Officer Nicholas Mulila also emphasized the value of digital tools. Mulila explained how Safaricom equips its employees and partners with risk assessment and reporting tools. He noted that collaboration is essential since no organization can fight corruption alone.
Call to Action for Businesses
The conference concluded with a strong call to action for private sector leaders. Businesses were urged to align anti-corruption strategies with their goals, adopt compliance technologies, and engage young, tech-savvy advocates for transparency. Recognizing and rewarding ethical behavior were also highlighted as key strategies to encourage change.
Since its inception in 2019, ABEC has provided a platform for promoting integrity in Africa’s business landscape. According to the 2023 Kenya National Ethics and Corruption Survey, corruption ranks as the fourth most critical issue in Kenya, following the cost of living, unemployment, and poverty.
Addressing corruption is not just a moral obligation; it is a strategic necessity for sustainable economic growth. As emphasized throughout the conference, technology remains a powerful tool in this fight.
