World Bank Engages Partners on Building Transparent, Inclusive, and Accountable Institutions to End Poverty

By: Christian Conteh

In the ongoing battle against corruption, the World Bank Africa has taken a significant step by engaging partners from across the continent to build transparent, inclusive, and accountable institutions aimed at eradicating poverty. The collaboration brought together a diverse group of participants and an experienced panel to share insights into their efforts in the fight against corruption and the challenges faced across the region.

Corruption poses a severe threat to development, affecting the most vulnerable in society. From petty bribes to embezzlement of public funds, the consequences of corruption are far-reaching. It amplifies inequality, hinders access to essential services such as healthcare and education, and undermines the overall well-being of the people. Moreover, it weakens economies, discourages private sector investment, and can lead to social friction, fragility and conflict.

Gladys Senderayi, Senior Public Sector Specialist at the World Bank office in Liberia, emphasized the detrimental impact of corruption on trust and confidence in government.

“Corruption erodes trust and confidence in government because it ultimately affects the well-being of the people,” she stated.

Ms. Senderayi pointed out that corruption is a driver of fragility and conflict, with its pervasive effects evident in various aspects of society. She highlighted Liberia’s commitment to strengthening its anti-corruption commission as part of the broader effort to combat corruption.

Lala Touray, Program Officer at the National Democratic Institute office in The Gambia, echoed the global prevalence of corruption and its adverse effects on people’s livelihoods. She emphasized the need to build strong institutions but acknowledged that addressing corruption requires a comprehensive approach.

Ms. Touray stressed the importance of focusing on the mindset of individuals and implementing legislation to facilitate the fight against corruption. In her perspective, legislative frameworks are crucial, but effective implementation is the key challenge.

Responding to a question from Sierra Leonean Journalist Christian Conteh, Naye Bathily, the External Affairs Manager for Western and Central Africa at the World Bank, acknowledged the perception that World Bank resources are often seen as a form of approval to governments. Bathily explained that the World Bank employs rigorous processes and procedures that must be met by all partners, who are themselves members of the bank.

“The World Bank, as a global financial institution, plays a crucial role in serving as a check and balance to governments in various regions. While it is true that World Bank resources are often seen as a form of approval to the government, this dynamic involves a complex interplay of factors that contribute to its effectiveness in promoting accountability and governance,” Bathily said.

She further elaborated that the World Bank attaches conditions to its financial assistance, requiring borrowing countries to implement specific policy reforms, thus ensuring adherence to sound economic and governance practices.

The collaborative efforts between the World Bank and its partners underscore a commitment to building a foundation of integrity, transparency, and accountability across the African continent in the ongoing fight against corruption.