Heads of Anti-Corruption Agencies (ACAs) across Commonwealth Africa have bolstered their leadership and institutional capacity following targeted training delivered by the Commonwealth Secretariat in collaboration with the Financial Crimes Commission of Mauritius. The training, held in Port Louis, responded directly to requests from agency leaders at the 15th Commonwealth Regional Conference of Heads of Anti-Corruption Agencies in Africa earlier this year.
With more than 80% of ACA heads recently appointed, participants highlighted the urgent need to enhance leadership and managerial skills to ensure effective governance of their institutions. While African anti-corruption agencies have made notable progress, evolving challenges demand stronger strategic oversight, practical tools, and sustainable organizational capacity—precisely what the Secretariat’s program provided.
In his address, Mauritius Attorney General Hon. Gavin Glover emphasized that the fight against corruption safeguards democracy itself. He pointed to recent reforms restoring the independence of the Director of Public Prosecutions and highlighted efforts to strengthen collaboration through joint investigations and the planned Mauritius National Crime Agency. Glover stressed that laws and institutions succeed only when guided by integrity, courage, and ethical leadership.
Echoing this, Dr. Roger Koranteng, Head of Public Sector Governance at the Commonwealth Secretariat, highlighted that corruption often stems from leadership failure. He urged African agencies to embrace cooperation, innovation, and adaptability in the face of increasingly sophisticated, cross-border financial crimes. Titrudeo Dawoodarry, Acting Director-General of Mauritius’ Financial Crimes Commission, reinforced the call for unity, warning against the “Dead Horse Theory” of persisting with ineffective practices.
Dr. Koranteng praised Mauritius for its governance standards while underscoring the need for developing countries to strengthen leadership and management. “As corruption becomes more technologically sophisticated, it is crucial that institutions fighting it remain agile, resilient, and equipped with the latest knowledge and skills,” he said. He encouraged participants to view the training as a turning point—returning as stronger leaders and champions of integrity, justice, and peace.
Delivered through the Commonwealth’s Professional Action Learning Programme, the training emphasized practical application of skills. Expected outcomes include enhanced institutional capacity, more transparent and accountable governance, and stronger delivery on Sustainable Development Goal 16, which focuses on building effective, accountable, and inclusive institutions.
With the Commonwealth Secretariat’s support, African anti-corruption agencies are better positioned to modernize practices, respond effectively to today’s complex challenges, and lead with integrity for lasting impact.
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