Assessing the anti-corruption strategies in Africa– the case of Institutional Integrity Committees (IICs) in Malawi’s Civil Service

Abstract

This article examines the anti-corruption strategies adopted by Sub Saharan Africa countries to combat corruption. Particular attention is given to Malawi’s Institutional Integrity Committees (IICs) in the civil service. Political transitions from undemocratic regimes to democratic governance in Malawi gave hope for a corruption-free civil service. However, corruption has emerged as a major impediment. The central argument in this article is that much as the attainment of efficiency and effectiveness in the civil service is a function of many factors, the promotion of ethical behaviour by institutional integrity committees is critical. Based on documentary research and key informant interviews, the article contends that the role of integrity institutions in the fight against corruption is increasingly recognized by both public officials and political office bearers. However, despite the institutionalization of integrity committees, the fight against unethical behaviour-- particularly corruption -- is complicated by political interference, ineffective leadership, legal constraints, inadequate capacity, ineffective coordination and the lack citizen engagement. The article concludes that comprehensive policy and legal framework, effective leadership as well as strategies which improve capacity, employee motivation and citizen participation are necessary to strengthen the anti-corruption mechanisms for the effective fight against unethical behaviour, particularly corruption in the civil service.