By: Alberta Asanewa Dwirah and Angela Adu-Asomaning
Transparency International Ghana has called for stronger regional cooperation and collective action to address corruption and governance challenges across Africa.
Speaking at the opening of the 2026 Africa Regional Meeting in Accra, the Chairman of Transparency International Ghana, Rev. Emmanuel Ansah, said Ghana’s hosting of the gathering reflects the country’s commitment to advancing the anti-corruption agenda on the continent.
He noted that the forum provides an opportunity for stakeholders to reflect on emerging challenges, share experiences, and develop joint strategies to tackle corruption, strengthen institutional integrity, protect civic space, and improve governance across Africa.
“Our objectives going forward are clear. We need to transition from isolated, project-based initiatives to more effective regional and global cooperation,” Rev. Ansah stated.
The Director of Strategy, Research and Communication at the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP), Samuel Darko, emphasized that the fight against corruption extends beyond exposing wrongdoing to strengthening institutions and sustaining public confidence in the rule of law.
He expressed appreciation for the support Transparency International and its partners have provided to the OSP, noting that strong and independent accountability institutions must be protected if anti-corruption efforts are to succeed.
“As Ghana hosts this gathering, we hope the discussions will produce more than recommendations. We hope they will strengthen the resolve required for the difficult work that lies ahead,” he said.
Commissioner of the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ), Joseph Whittal, described corruption as a direct assault on the rights, dignity, and welfare of citizens. According to him, tackling corruption is essential for protecting human dignity and promoting accountable and equitable governance.
He added that national human rights institutions such as CHRAJ play a critical role in monitoring, advocacy, and public education on governance and accountability issues.
Chairperson of the African Union Advisory Board Against Corruption (AUABC), Edem Senanu, highlighted the social and economic challenges facing Africa, including illicit financial flows and the loss of critical resources.
He called on African countries to reduce financial leakages and strengthen domestic resource mobilisation to improve citizens’ livelihoods and accelerate development.
Mr. Senanu also commended Transparency International and its national chapters for promoting public accountability, strengthening anti-corruption systems, and amplifying citizen voices in governance.
He stressed that the fight against corruption requires a collective effort and should be guided by the African Union Convention on Preventing and Combating Corruption.
The 2026 Africa Regional Meeting of Transparency International, hosted in Accra, brings together partners and stakeholders from across the continent to review corruption trends, assess the operating environment for civil society organisations, and strengthen collective efforts to combat corruption in Africa.
