Since May 4, 2026, Yaoundé, the capital of Cameroon, has hosted a major strategic meeting of the Commonwealth dedicated to fighting corruption in Africa. At least 25 countries are discussing concrete solutions to curb a costly scourge for African economies. This conference brought together over 200 participants, including public officials, experts, and civil society actors from Commonwealth member states.
The meeting was presided over by the Minister Delegate to the Presidency, Rose Mbah Acha. She represented the Cameroonian head of state, Paul Biya, at the opening of the proceedings. The central theme focused on “the use of artificial intelligence in the prevention and repression of corruption.” During the discussions, experts highlighted its potential to improve transparency, traceability of financial flows, and public governance.
According to participants, “corruption remains a major obstacle to investment and inclusive growth.” It weakens institutions, reduces citizens’ trust, and increases the cost of financing African economies.
This conference is part of the momentum driven by the Association of Anti-Corruption Agencies of the Commonwealth in Africa. It supports the program of the National Anti-Corruption Commission aimed at enhancing the transparency of public action.
The exchanges allowed for sharing national experiences, as well as identifying common tools. States are invited to develop operational roadmaps, integrating technological innovation and citizen participation.
In Cameroon, the authorities have highlighted the reforms underway. Several control institutions exist, including the National Financial Investigations Agency (ANIF) and the Chamber of Accounts. This is in addition to the National Anti-Corruption Commission (CONAC) and the Minister Delegate to the Presidency of the Republic in charge of State Control (Consupe).
For the experts present at this meeting in Yaoundé, “corruption of public finances constitutes a real economic cancer.” It diverts essential resources from infrastructure, health, and education.
The final recommendations call for enhanced cooperation among African Commonwealth countries. They emphasize data sharing, training of agents, and harmonization of legal frameworks.
As a reminder, the organizing committee, set up in early April 2026, mobilized several strategic ministries. This coordination gave the event international visibility and increased institutional weight.
By positioning itself as the epicenter of this initiative, Yaoundé strengthens its image on the regional stage. The fight against corruption appears more than ever as a lever for economic credibility and financial attractiveness for Africa.
