AUC Chairperson Marks African Anti-Corruption Day 2026

On the occasion of the 2026 African Anti-Corruption Day, H.E. Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, the Chairperson of the African Union Commission reaffirmed the Commission's unwavering commitment to advancing integrity, transparency and accountability as indispensable pillars for achieving Agenda 2063: The Africa We Want.

Recalling the words of former United Nations Secretary-General Kofi Annan, "If corruption is a disease, integrity and transparency are the essential remedies for the rebirth of our continent," the Chairperson underscored that the fight against corruption is central to Africa's development, peace, security and social justice.

The Chairperson noted that the 2026 theme, "Scaling up the Promotion of Integrity and Anti-Corruption Actions Across Africa," reflects the African Union's vision of democratic governance founded on shared values. He stressed that continental integration requires trust among Member States, and that such trust can only be sustained through integrity, transparency and robust systems of accountability.

H.E. Mr Youssouf commended the African Union Advisory Board Against Corruption (AUABC) for its continued leadership in promoting and implementing the African Union Convention on Preventing and Combating Corruption (AUCPCC). He emphasized, however, that legal and institutional frameworks alone are insufficient and called for a broader cultural transformation that embeds ethics, integrity and accountability across African societies.

Reaffirming the African Union Commission's support for Member States, the Chairperson encouraged the adoption and implementation of national integrity and ethics strategies, while calling for stronger multilateral cooperation to accelerate asset recovery and harmonize anti-corruption efforts across the continent.

The Chairperson reiterated that combating corruption remains a strategic priority for the African Union. He pledged the Commission's continued support for the work of the AUABC and called upon governments, institutions, civil society, the private sector and citizens to work collectively in promoting integrity and strengthening anti-corruption actions.

"The promotion of integrity and the fight against corruption are a shared continental responsibility. By scaling up our collective efforts, we can safeguard Africa's resources, strengthen public trust and accelerate the realization of Agenda 2063 for the benefit of present and future generations," the Chairperson said.

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Mr. Nuur Mohamud Sheekh I Spokesperson of the Chairperson I African Union Commission I Email: [email protected] | Addis Ababa, Ethiopia