The 2023 Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI) revealed that corruption is a significant problem around the world and especially in Africa. This index evaluated 180 countries and territories to measure the perceived levels of public sector corruption, with scores ranging from 0 (highly corrupt) to 100 (very clean).
The findings showed that more than two-thirds of the countries scored less than 50 out of 100, indicating widespread corruption issues. The average score remained unchanged at 43, highlighting that many countries have not shown improvement or have worsened in terms of corruption over the last ten years. In fact, around 23 countries hit their lowest scores this year.
Here are the top 10 African countries with the worst corruption rankings according to Transparency International’s CPI:
- Somalia stands at the bottom with a CPI score of 11 and a global ranking of 180th. Its challenges with corruption are exacerbated by political instability and ongoing conflict, with a weak central government and lack of oversight mechanisms.
- South Sudan, with a CPI of 13 and ranked 177th globally, faces corruption challenges due to power struggles, resource mismanagement, and neglect of essential services since its independence in 2011.
- Equatorial Guinea has a CPI of 17 and is ranked 172nd. Corruption in this oil-rich country is driven by high levels of nepotism and embezzlement, with power concentrated in the ruling family and a lack of resource distribution transparency.
- Libya, with a CPI of 18 and a global rank of 170th, suffers from corruption amidst weak institutions and political instability, especially in managing its oil wealth.
- Sudan scores 20 on the CPI and is ranked 162nd. The country struggles with political and economic instability, with corruption affecting various sectors and public services.
- The Democratic Republic of Congo, also with a CPI of 20 and ranked 162nd, is hindered by corruption in both public and private sectors, affecting its development despite its vast natural resources.
- Comoros shares the same CPI score of 20 and a rank of 162nd. Corruption is a major issue impacting poverty and inequality on the island.
- Chad, with a CPI of 20 and ranked 162nd, lacks effective anti-corruption campaigns, contributing to poverty and hindering economic growth.
- Burundi also scores 20 on the CPI and is ranked 162nd. Systemic corruption is a significant barrier to progress and improving citizens’ livelihoods.
- Eritrea is slightly ahead with a CPI of 21 and a global rank of 161st, facing corruption challenges that obstruct its progress and development.
However, Nigeria has moved up four places in the Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI) although the West African country did not improve on its previous year’s points, according to a new index released by Transparency International (TI).
Despite maintaining its previous score of 24 out of 100 points in the 2021 assessment, Nigeria’s position went up to 150th in the new index compared to its 154th position out of 180 countries assessed in the 202 rankings.
Reacting to these rankings, legal practitioner Okanlawon Gaffar emphasized the need for African leaders to intensify their efforts against corruption. He stated, “Corruption is a termite that cuts short the progress of any country if not tamed in time. African leaders need to up their games and fight corruption on the continent to enhance development.”