ABSTRACT
According to the World Democracy Audit [2007] eleven of the 25 most corrupt countries in the world are in Africa (Kenya, Republic of Congo, Liberia, Sierra Leone, Ivory Coast, Central African Republic, Congo Guinee, Sudan, Chad and Somalia). South Africa’s is ranked 43rd. Although the merits of the methodology used by this perceptions index are constantly debated, one is probably justified in arguing that the African continent is currently plagued by a culture of corruption that Lala Camerer [1996: 48] describes as “more damaging to the nation’s psyche than visible, violent street crimes.” As a result of this perception of widespread corruption, international organizations such as the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund require evidence of active attempts by applicant countries to curb fraud and corruption in order to qualify for financial assistance.
