Hertta-Maria Amutenja
The Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) and the Special Investigating Unit (SIU) of South Africa have agreed to exchange information about corruption, including sector-specific best practices in forensic investigation methodologies and techniques.
This collaboration follows the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the two institutions.
ACC spokesperson, Josephine Nghituwamata told Windhoek Observer this week that the primary goal of the MoU is to establish a robust foundation for cooperation between the parties in their collective fight against corruption and economic crimes.
“It addresses the reciprocal technical assistance that the two parties will provide to one another as required. The two parties will exchange training on corruption prevention, public education, investigative techniques, cyber forensic investigations, financial investigation, asset recovery and any other pertinent training that will improve the capacity of the parties,” she explained.
The MoU was formally endorsed during the 6th Annual General Meeting of the Africa Association of Anti-Corruption Authorities (AAACA), which took place from July 31 to August 1, 2023.
The agreement is valid for a duration of five years.
ACC Director General Paulus Noah also attended the meeting, which was held under the theme, “Promoting Citizen Engagement in the Fight Against Corruption and Illicit Financial Flows: A Guarantee for Holistic Development in Africa,” the event was officiated by South Africa’s Minister of Justice and Correctional Services, Ronald Lamola.
Throughout the meeting, representatives from various member states of AAACA delivered presentations covering diverse aspects relevant to bolstering efforts to combat corruption across Africa in a comprehensive manner.
The event, which saw participation from over 40 AAACA member countries, underscored the crucial role of the continental platform, established in 2011 by leaders and representatives of anti-corruption agencies.
The AAACA seeks to garner support and resources for collaborative anti-corruption endeavours within Africa, fostering an environment conducive to addressing corruption and fortifying good governance across the continent.
