Officials from African and Chinese countries called for strengthening interaction to combat corruption and protect investments, as the states aim to expand industrial development and infrastructure projects on the continent.
This call was made at the China-Africa Forum on Anti-Corruption, which took place in Cairo. Forum participants discussed issues of governance, law enforcement, and methods to enhance cooperation in investment and development projects.
Amr Darwish, a member of the Egyptian parliament, noted that corruption remains a serious economic problem for Africa. He referred to estimates suggesting that the continent loses about $148 billion annually due to corrupt practices. According to Darwish, although there is no precise data on the level of corruption in Africa, research centers have calculated that corruption costs approximately $148 billion per year, which accounts for about 25% of Africa's GDP.
The scale of these losses threatens resources that could be directed towards supporting infrastructure, public services, and industrial growth. Previously, the African Union also mentioned estimates of $148 billion in annual losses from corruption, although the exact cost is difficult to measure.
Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi stated that the fight against corruption requires coordinated action across the continent. He emphasized that eradicating corruption and changing the reality of the continent is only possible through cooperation and the implementation of joint African anti-corruption mechanisms, mentioning Egypt's adoption of laws consistent with the African Union Convention on the Prevention and Combating of Corruption.
Darwish also advocated for closer cooperation between Egypt, China, and other African countries participating in the 'Belt and Road' initiative. He suggested that China's experience in governance could contribute to the expansion of infrastructure projects. This initiative represents China's global program for investment and infrastructure, where Africa is one of the main recipients of investment and construction participation.
Sabri El Gendy, advisor to the Egyptian Minister of Local Development and an anti-corruption expert, argued that informational campaigns alone are insufficient to solve the problem of bribery. He insisted that applying strict laws and imposing severe penalties without exceptions or favoritism would lead to the eradication of corruption, calling on African and Arab countries to learn from China's example.
The forum highlighted the economic significance of accountability, as African countries seek investment to expand manufacturing, energy, and transport infrastructure. Participants noted the need to strengthen oversight and cooperation to curb corruption, protect public resources, and ensure that development projects bring long-term benefits.