CORRUPTION AND SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT IN AFRICA: A HUMAN RIGHTS PERSPECTIVE

Abstract

This paper explores the link between corruption and sustainable development in Africa from a human rights perspective. It begins by unpacking the key concepts of corruption, sustainable development, and human rights, and offering a theoretical framework to understand their interconnections. Corruption is examined not only as a governance challenge but also as a fundamental impediment to the realisation of human rights and the achievement of sustainable development goals. Drawing on case studies from South Africa, Nigeria, Kenya, and Uganda, the paper assesses how legal frameworks, policy reforms and civil society initiatives have addressed (or failed to address) corruption and its effects on sustainable development. These case studies highlight both persistent challenges and emerging strategies in confronting corruption across different national contexts. The paper argues for – and recommends – a human rights-based approach to combating corruption and to sustainable development. It also recommends promoting transparency, strengthening judicial independence, and enhancing civic society participation, among other things.