Most Corrupt African Countries Entering 2024 

Corruption remains a formidable obstacle to development and prosperity in many African countries as we step into 2024. The issue, deep-rooted and widespread, hampers efforts towards achieving economic stability and social justice across the continent. 

According to Transparency International, a leading global organization in the fight against corruption, the menace of corrupt practices in Africa is a complex problem that undermines the very foundation of societies, leading to a scenario where the rich and powerful exploit justice systems at the expense of the common good.

Corruption in African countries affects every facet of society, from limiting access to basic services for the vulnerable to stifling economic opportunities. It erodes trust in public institutions, undermines the rule of law, and perpetuates inequality. Let’s take a look at these African most corrupt countries.

Somalia

Somalia remains the most corrupt African country in 2024, with a CPI score of 11. The country’s enduring conflict and political instability create an environment where corruption thrives, severely impacting governance and hindering development efforts, ranking 180th globally.

South Sudan

South Sudan, the world’s youngest nation, is grappling with a CPI score of 13, indicating rampant corruption. The country’s ongoing internal conflicts and the absence of strong institutional frameworks have paved the way for corruption to become deeply entrenched in its public sector. South Sudan currently ranks 177th in the global space.

Equatorial Guinea

Equatorial Guinea’s CPI score of 17 reflects a paradox of immense oil wealth coexisting with widespread corruption, ranking 172nd globally. Despite its potential for economic prosperity, the country’s riches are concentrated in the hands of a few, with little benefit reaching the general population. 

Libya

Libya, with a CPI score of 18, continues to struggle with corruption amid ongoing political instability and security challenges. The absence of a unified national government has allowed corruption to flourish, with various factions exploiting the country’s oil resources for personal gain. Libya is ranked as the 170th most corrupt country globally.

Sudan

Sudan faces a critical juncture in its history with a CPI score of 20, as it attempts to transition towards a more transparent and democratic governance structure. However, corruption remains a significant obstacle ranking as 162nd on the global space.

Democratic Republic of Congo

The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), scoring 20 on the CPI, epitomizes the “resource curse,” where abundant natural resources have not translated into prosperity for its people. Instead, corruption has led to the mismanagement and exploitation of these resources, contributing to widespread poverty and instability. DRC also ranks as the 162nd most corrupt country globally.

Comoros

Comoros, with a CPI score of 20, illustrates how small nations are not immune to the impacts of corruption. The country’s limited economic development is further constrained by corrupt practices, affecting public service delivery and deterring investment. Also, Comoros ranks 162nd in the global space.

Chad

Chad’s CPI score of 20 reflects the challenges it faces in managing its oil wealth without succumbing to corruption. The nation’s development potential is hindered by governance issues, with corruption affecting all levels of government, ranking 162nd globally.

Burundi

Ranking 162nd on the global space, Burundi’s ongoing governance challenges are highlighted by its CPI score of 20. Political instability, limited checks and balances, and weak judicial systems contribute to an environment where corruption can thrive.  

Eritrea

Eritrea’s score of 21 on the CPI indicates significant corruption challenges within its closed and tightly controlled governance system. The lack of transparency and accountability mechanisms exacerbates corruption issues, affecting economic development and contributing to human rights abuses. The country ranks as the 161st most corrupt country globally.