«The AfDB is a leading institution in the fight against corruption. The control system set up is on the move and the results achieved plausible » as stated on 11 December by Prof. Victor Ayemi, Director of the Governance Department and International Services Management at the opening ceremony of AfDB Days against corruption that took place from11 December through 13 December 2012. They were chaired by AfDB President, Dr. Donald Kaberuka.
In her welcome statement, Anna Bossman , Director of the Integrity and Anti-corruption Department (IACD) recalled that « integrity counts as it helps to fight effectively against corruption and mal-governance. » She indicated that the objective of the Days was to enable participants to openly discuss issues on corruption. For his part President Kaberuka said : « We should work hand in hand with the local authorities in order to fight against corruption as our Institution cannot single-handed succeed in this struggle ».
Furthermore, he indicated the important areas that demand concerted efforts, in particular, budgetary support, natural resources management (mines et gas) and the financing of elections in Africa. «Africa should steer clear of past errors in the management of its natural resources. The AfDB is at the fore-front and at all levels. »
In concluding, President Kaberuka repeated the need to ensure that «every dollar counts and should be used productively to the benefit of our populations and the satisfaction of shareholders and taxpayers ». It is for these reasons, he added, that the fight against corruption at all levels is foremost to the African Development Bank, particularly at a time when Africa is producing acceptable economic results . Several representatives from public and international organizations, as well as a good number of AfDB Resident Representatives and experts attended the opening ceremony. The Open Days were in line with the commemoration of the International Anti-corruption Day enacted by the United Nations in October 2003 and celebrated every year on 11th December.