International Anti-Corruption Day: 9 Actions to Strengthen Integrity in Namibia

Every year on December 9, the world observes International Anti-Corruption Day, a global initiative established by the United Nations General Assembly in 2003 to raise awareness about corruption and mobilise efforts to combat it. This date marks the anniversary of the adoption of the United Nations Convention against Corruption (UNCAC), the world’s most comprehensive anti-corruption treaty.

Corruption undermines development, weakens public trust, and exacerbates inequality by diverting resources meant to improve lives. It affects every corner of society – governments, businesses, and individuals alike – and requires collective action to address its root causes.

Considering the above, the Institute for Public Policy Research’s Integrity Namibia project has identified nine key actions Namibia can take to combat corruption and strengthen integrity:

1. Improve Legislation: Amend the Anti-Corruption Act to enhance independence, introduce term limits for the ACC leadership, and ensure a transparent appointment process.
2. Implement Key Laws: Fast-track the implementation of the Whistleblower Protection Act and the Access to Information Act.
3. Join the EITI: Support Namibia’s membership in the Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (EITI) for oil, gas, and mining.
4. Ensure Transparency in Fisheries: Amend the Marine Resources Act to promote openness and accountability in the fisheries sector.
5. Recover Stolen Assets: Intensify efforts to recover stolen assets from foreign companies linked to corruption cases, such as the Fishrot scandal involving Icelandic company Samherji.
6. Disclose Ministers’ Assets: Make declarations of interests and assets by Ministers publicly accessible.
7. Implement Asset Declarations: Establish robust asset declaration systems for senior public officials and MPs.
8. Strengthen Public Procurement: Ensure strict compliance with the Public Procurement Act through enhanced oversight and enforcement.
9. Revitalise the APRM: Strengthen the African Peer Review Mechanism (APRM) framework to deliver on the National Programme of Action launched in 2024, fostering collaboration among government, private sector, and civil society.

Integrity is the cornerstone of development. Together, we can root out corruption and ensure a brighter future for all.

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Issued on 09 December 2024
Further details: Graham Hopwood, IPPR Executive Director – 081 231 9722; director@ippr.org.na