Corruption
Corruption is the abuse of entrusted power for private gain, encompassing bribery, embezzlement, fraud, extortion, nepotism and other forms of dishonest or unethical conduct by public officials, corporate executives or other individuals in positions of authority. It undermines economic development, distorts markets, erodes public trust in institutions and diverts resources away from essential services such as healthcare, education and infrastructure. In the African context, corruption has been identified as a major impediment to sustainable growth, particularly in resource-rich economies where extractive industries and large-scale public procurement create opportunities for rent-seeking behaviour. Transparency International and similar organisations track corruption through indices such as the Corruption Perceptions Index, which ranks countries by perceived levels of public-sector corruption. Anti-corruption frameworks include domestic legislation, independent oversight bodies such as anti-corruption commissions, and international initiatives including the United Nations Convention against Corruption and the Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (EITI). Effective anti-corruption measures require political will, judicial independence, media freedom and active civil-society engagement. The economic cost of corruption in Africa is estimated to run into tens of billions of dollars annually, affecting foreign direct investment, tax revenues and the efficient allocation of public funds. Efforts to combat corruption have intensified across the continent, with varying degrees of success depending on the strength of institutions and the commitment of political leadership. Corruption remains a recurring theme in African business and political coverage, reflecting its pervasive impact on governance, economic performance and social equity.
Corruption Updates
RISE Mzansi calls for urgent public sector ethics reset, fully resourced justice system, and mandatory lifestyle audits
22nd September 2026 Corruption is not a victimless crime. It steals directly from those in need, robbing our communities of essential public services, crippling... →
Can South Africa catch the next state capture early?
By: ISS, Institute for Security Studies 21st September 2026 A new ISS anti-corruption tracker uses AI to identify patterns and warning signs in a wide range of government institutions. South Africa knows the... →
PSA welcomes withdrawal of charges against SAPS National Commissioner
18th September 2026 The Public Servants Association (PSA) noted the formal withdrawal of corruption charges against suspended National Police Commissioner, General... →
Madlanga Commission remembers whistleblowers as it marks one year
By: Thabi Shomolekae 17th September 2026 The Madlanga Commission marks its one-year milestone with “tangible results” having exposed deep institutional corruption, according to Commission... →
EFF Local Government Elections Manifesto 2026
15th September 2026 The 2026 local government elections stand as one of the most decisive moments in the history of our democracy. Our people face a growing crisis of... →
Ramaphosa greenlights SIU probe into eThekwini municipality, North West Transport Investments 
By: Thabi Shomolekae 14th September 2026 President Cyril Ramaphosa has signed a new proclamation and a key amendment empowering the Special Investigating Unit to probe deep-seated... →
DA calls on eThekwini Mayor to suspend failing head of water and sanitation
11th September 2026 I call on eThekwini Mayor Cyril Xaba to suspend the failing Executive Director for the Technical Services Department, Ednick Msweli with immediate... →
Special Investigating Unit freezes properties and vehicles associated with Liyabongeka Trading Enterprise CC
11th September 2026 The Special Investigating Unit (SIU) has secured a provisional preservation order from the Special Tribunal, freezing three properties and five... →
City of Joburg Council appointment of the head of Public Safety undermines the integrity of the administration
11th September 2026 ActionSA is gravely concerned about the recent decision taken by the ANC led administration in the City of Joburg’s Council to appoint Lesiba... →
DA exposes corruption in Gauteng Metro Police, including a R1.5 million bribe
7th September 2026 Corruption and rot within the Gauteng traffic and metro police services is alarming. A staggering R1.5 million bribe was allegedly taken by a... →
