Why does Africa remain in extreme poverty? As the old saying goes, where there
is poverty, there is corruption. Although blame can partially be placed on lingering
effects of colonialism and lack of infrastructure, a vast portion of it must fall on the
back of internal political corruption. A recent New York Times op-ed article documented
the situation in the Equatorial Guinea. Although it spoke to signs of emerging change in
the air, it also demonstrated the effects of years of political corruption. Even the Sudan
genocide was prompted by uprisings in the black population, responding to social and
economic inequalities favoring the Arab ruling elite over the majority black population.
Political corruption can be found everywhere. Even in the United States,
considered the pinnacle of democracy, we see politicians selling themselves to corporate
interests. What distinguishes Africa from the world and leads to vast continental poverty
is infiltration of corruption to the civil service positions. Such corruption creates a
culture of self service and disregard for the situations of others. Corrupted civil servants
hinder the poorest of African inhabitants from ever escaping their undesirable situations
by polluting every aspect of society, from education to the economy.
A 2002 article from BBC news reported that internal corruption costs Africa
nearly 150 billion dollars a year, as estimated by the African Union. Under the table style
corruption severely punishes Africa’s already impoverished population. Rapid inflation
coincided with decrease in foreign investment paralyze the economy while decreasing
potential for future growth.
Aside from economic ramifications, the affects of corruption ring loud throughout
daily life. A June 2004 BBC report mentioned that Cameroonian hospitals often operated
for under the table bribes, often leaving patients seeking medical care with no assistance.
Schools often pass students on examinations if bribed with money. The corruption can
be felt throughout society consequences are frequently irreversible.
In order for Africa to escape extreme poverty it must address the extreme
corruption spiraling out of control. The Supranatural organization of the African Union
must play a leading role in generating changes. Although many symbolic anti corruption
laws have been passed, they have hardly been enforced, allowing for the lawlessness to
continue. The world community must also be vigilant and hold the governments
corrupting society from the top accountable by avoiding economic interactions that will
only fatten the pockets of African politicians. It is critical for humanity that Africa no
longer remain the scar on the conscience of mankind and a change is long overdue.
