Corruption: Causes, effects and deterrents

Abstract

Corruption is a cosmopolitan problem. However, its adverse effects on less-developed countries are perhaps more profound due to the fact that it has greatly affected the potential for governments in such countries to meet the basic needs and expectations of the common people. There is, therefore, a pressing need for a sustained effort to nip the seemingly elusive problem of corruption in the bud, so to speak. This study endeavours to conceptualise the nature, causes, and effects of the scourge. The author begins by defining the term ‘corruption' and its practices, followed by an assessment of how a number of developing countries measure this phenomenon within their national borders. The focus then narrows to exploring corruption within an African context, and the causes and viable means of curbing the problem. The article closes on a positive note, with examples of success stories in the fight against corruption.

Africa Insight Vol. 36 (2) June 2006: 102-122