Ghana loses over US$3bn annually to corruption — NCCE

According to the Deputy Chairman of the National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE), Ghana loses more than US$3 billion annually to corruption. This significant annual loss could be redirected towards crucial areas like infrastructure development, job creation, and essential services, which are in high demand. Speaking at a Youth Leaders Empowerment Dialogue in Accra, Mr. Samuel Asare Akuamoah emphasized the need for Ghanaians, particularly the youth, to take a more active role in combating corruption.

He urged young leaders to transform civic education into practical action, urging them not to view these engagements as mere ceremonial events. The Executive Director of Transparency International Ghana, Mrs. Mary Addah, echoed similar sentiments, stressing that Ghana's performance on the Corruption Perceptions Index had stagnated between 2020 and 2024, indicating insufficient progress in addressing corruption.

She pointed out that while Ghana has a strong framework for promoting transparency, accountability, and integrity, the challenge lies in translating these principles into everyday practices. Mrs. Addah highlighted that public officers, entrusted with power, must remain transparent and accountable. She emphasized that public officials hold responsibility to the citizens and not personal interests.

Both speakers urged the youth to take the lead in the fight against corruption, emphasizing the importance of selflessness, integrity, and responsibility. They encouraged the youth to utilize various platforms, such as social media, community engagements, and civic education clubs, to disseminate accurate information, demand transparency, and hold public officials accountable.