An Assessment Of The Anti-Corruption Strategies In Namibia’s Public Sector

ABSTRACT

Corruption has been identified as an area of grave concern in most societies, including Namibia. For Namibia, the fight against corruption is not simple, but it is an economic and social issue. If allowed to persist, corruption has the potential to reverse the remarkable progress and successes recorded since independence in 1990. Also, it can contribute to a budget deficit, thereby fuelling inflation. Because of its negative effects, the GRN has introduced several anti-corruption mechanisms and strategies to nip it from the bud. These are the Offices of the Auditor General and the Ombudsman, the Anti-Corruption Commission and the Namibia Police, to mention but a few. In the Namibian context, anti-corruption mechanisms and strategies refer to public policies, laws and institutions that came into being to combat corruption. Notwithstanding these institutions, corruption thrives in the Namibian society. Incidences of corruption had been reported in the GRN departments, State-owned enterprises and the private sector. Among these are flouting of tender regulations, favouritism, accepting of bribes, nepotism and extortion. However, it is critical to mention that corruption is likely to persist because officials who are not necessarily committed to fight corruption are heading some of public and private entities. The paper concurs with those stating that corruption exists in Namibia although it is not yet embedded in the system. This remains a serious concern for all responsible citizens. ii For this reason, the paper examines the efficacy of the GRN’s anti-corruption strategies and mechanisms in order to suggest possible solutions/steps in strengthening the existing ones with a view to halt occurrences of corrupt malpractices. To win this battle, it is critical to implement a holistic approach that involves all stakeholders, namely the Government, non-governmental organisations, civil society and the public sector. It is a well-known fact that no single Government has ever eliminated this menace alone. To achieve this, co-operation and co-ordination among stakeholders becomes necessary.