The African Development Bank (AfDB) has signed a landmark agreement with Interpol to combat financial crime, corruption, and cyber fraud in Africa. This collaboration marks the first time a multilateral development bank has partnered with the global policing organisation to address illicit financial activities on the continent.
AfDB President Dr Akinwumi Adesina and Interpol Secretary General Valdecy Urquiza formalised the agreement on Wednesday at the Bank’s headquarters in Abidjan, setting the stage for enhanced cooperation in tackling financial crime.
Strengthening anti-corruption measures
Under the new agreement, AfDB’s Office of Integrity and Anti-Corruption will work closely with Interpol’s Financial Crime and Anti-Corruption Centre to share expertise, strengthen investigations, and implement preventive measures against financial crime. Key areas of focus include cybercrime, anti-corruption strategies, and counter-terrorism financing.
The urgency of this initiative is underscored by the staggering $90bn lost annually in illicit financial flows from Africa. These funds could otherwise be channelled into critical sectors such as healthcare, water and sanitation, food security, and energy infrastructure.
‘As the world’s most transparent financial institution for two consecutive years, we maintain zero tolerance for corruption and terrorism financing,’ said AfDB President Adesina. ‘By joining forces with Interpol, we are strengthening Africa’s ability to combat money laundering and financial crime.’
Growing threat of cyber-enabled financial crime
The rise of digital technology has fuelled an increase in cyber-enabled financial crimes, such as phishing, business email fraud, and romance scams. Interpol’s 2024 Global Financial Fraud Assessment highlights these digital threats as a major risk to Africa’s rapidly expanding digital economy.
Interpol Secretary General Urquiza emphasised the need for strong alliances between law enforcement and financial institutions to counter these threats.
‘Corruption and financial crime are among the biggest obstacles to economic and social development in Africa and around the world,’ said Urquiza. ‘As financial crimes evolve, particularly in the digital landscape, partnerships like this will help law enforcement agencies and financial institutions in Africa tackle increasingly sophisticated threats.’
AfDB has reaffirmed its commitment to promoting strong governance, ensuring transparency in financial transactions, and preventing fraud and corruption. As part of this strategy, the Bank aims to:
- Strengthen institutional capacity in African nations to improve governance and accountability.
- Enhance Know Your Customer (KYC) and due diligence systems to curb financial crime.
- Ensure AfDB’s financial resources are used transparently and reach their intended beneficiaries.
Recognised for its transparency by Publish What You Fund, AfDB continues to play a pivotal role in Africa’s economic development while taking firm action against corruption.
This historic partnership between AfDB and Interpol is expected to bolster Africa’s financial security, protect development investments, and promote a corruption-free business environment across the continent.
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