The Second Executive Board Meeting of the African Parliamentarians’ Network Against Corruption (APNAC Africa) opened on Thursday in Kigali, Rwanda, with a resounding call for parliamentarians across the continent to intensify vigilance and collective action against corruption.
Hosted by the Republic of Rwanda, the meeting brought together lawmakers, anti-corruption advocates, and international partners to deliberate on strategies to strengthen Africa’s anti-corruption efforts.
A Defining Moment
In his opening address, the Chairman of APNAC Africa and Speaker of Ghana’s Parliament, Rt. Hon. Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin described the gathering as a “defining moment” in the continent’s pursuit of a corruption-free future anchored on good governance. “We meet today at a defining moment in our bid for a corruption-free Africa that thrives in good governance. Since our inaugural Board Meeting, the global and continental anti-corruption landscape has continued to evolve rapidly,” he said.
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While acknowledging progress in institutional strengthening and citizen engagement, Bagbin lamented that corruption continues to undermine democratic governance, weaken institutions, and erode public trust across many African nations.
Staggering Economic Losses
Bagbin revealed alarming statistics from the African Union and the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa: the continent loses approximately $88.6 billion annually to illicit financial flows and corruption, equivalent to nearly 3.7% of Africa’s GDP. These resources, he noted, could otherwise fund healthcare, education, infrastructure, and social protection. “Corruption continues to fuel inequality, poverty, insecurity, poor service delivery, and public disillusionment, particularly among the youth,” he said.
He also highlighted emerging threats, including the misuse of artificial intelligence, digital technologies, cyber-enabled corruption, and sophisticated transnational financial crimes, calling for “innovative, coordinated, and future-oriented responses.”
Shining Stars’ Amidst the Gloom
Despite the grim outlook, Bagbin pointed to several African nations as “shining stars amidst dark clouds.” He specifically commended Rwanda, Botswana, Seychelles, Mauritius, and Ghana for demonstrating that strong political will, institutional discipline, digitization of public services, and effective monitoring can significantly reduce corruption and restore public confidence. “These countries have shown what is possible when leadership is committed to accountability and reform,” he stated. He paid special tribute to the host nation, Rwanda, for its visionary leadership, institutional reform, and determination in promoting accountability and national transformation.
Parliamentarians as Custodians of Public Trust
Bagbin reminded his colleagues of their unique and historic responsibility in the fight against corruption. “We are not merely lawmakers. We are custodians of public trust. We are representatives of the aspirations of millions of Africans who expect integrity in public leadership and accountability in governance,” he declared.
He noted that the 11th Session of the Conference of States Parties (CoSP 11)to the United Nations Convention Against Corruption had reinforced the indispensable role of parliamentarians in promoting transparency and safeguarding public resources.
A Renewed Vision
Since assuming office as President of APNAC Africa at the 9th Biennial General Meeting in Accra, Ghana, on 9th November 2025, Bagbin said the new leadership has embraced a bold vision. “We envision building a stronger, more visible, more united, and more impactful continental parliamentary movement against corruption,” he stated.
Call to Collective Action
Bagbin urged Board members to approach their deliberations with openness and shared determination to strengthen APNAC Africa as a credible and influential voice in governance and anti-corruption.He specifically highlighted the upcoming African Anti-Corruption Day on 11th July, urging members to use it not as a ceremonial event but as a platform for advocacy, public engagement, parliamentary action, youth outreach, and renewed commitment to integrity.“Let us send a strong signal across the continent about what APNAC stands for,” he urged.
Gratitude to Hosts and Partners
Bagbin expressed deep appreciation to Board members, partners, and invited guests for their commitment to the cause. He singled out the Global Organization of Parliamentarians. Against Corruption (GOPAC) for its enduring partnership, especially in organizing activities on the sidelines of CoSP.He also extended gratitude to the President and Government of Rwanda, the Senate and House of Deputies, and the people of Rwanda for their “warm hospitality and excellent arrangements.”