Chief Crusader of Crusaders Against Corruption, an anti- corruption and good governance education group, Emmanuel Wilson Jnr., has made a startling revelation that Ghana loses a staggering $3 billion to corruption every year.
This assertion was made during a program organized by Crusaders Against Corruption in Koforidua, where Wilson Jnr. cited former President Mahama’s past actions as a positive step in the fight against corruption.
According to Wilson Jnr., Ghana’s corruption problem is endemic, affecting every aspect of society. From bribery to embezzlement, corruption has become a norm, rather than an exception.
The Ghana Integrity Initiative estimates that the country loses up to $3 billion annually to corruption, which is confirmed by the 2021 Ghana Integrity of Public Services Survey (GIPSS) report.
Ghana’s corruption situation is alarming, with the country ranking 73rd on the Corruption Perception Index, tied with Hungary, Kuwait, Senegal, and the Solomon Islands. The 2022 Afrobarometer survey revealed that 77% of Ghanaians believe corruption has increased, up from 53% in 2019.
Corruption retards growth, hinders good governance, and reduces the ability of developing countries to supply essential public services. It also undermines trust in institutions, as 65% of Ghanaians believe most police officers are corrupt.
To combat corruption, Wilson Jnr. emphasized the need for honesty and integrity among citizens and leaders. Instilling virtues of integrity, honesty, and patriotism in children from a young age is crucial. Additionally, leaders must act honourably, and corruption-related instances must be pursued vigorously.
The fight against corruption requires collective effort and a change in mindset. As Wilson Jnr. statement highlights, Ghana’s future depends on its ability to tackle corruption and ensure accountability.
