Has Malawi’s CPI 2017 ranking improved?
- Details
- 17 Feb
The Corruption Perception Index (CPI) ranks countries by their perceived levels of corruption based on expert assessments and opinion surveys. The CPI is based on a tool developed by Transparency International, a global anti-corruption movement. Just like it has been in the past, Malawi was one of more than 180 countries and territories that were included in the 2017 Corruption Perceptions Index.
The status of corruption in Malawi has continued to be worrisome despite several efforts to fight corruption by government and other players. In the recent past, Malawi has experienced unprecedented levels of corruption a situation which is negatively affecting the delivery of essential socio-economic services to Malawians. The 2016 CPI ranked Malawi among countries that have continued to be perceived as the most corrupt in the region and globally. Malawi was ranked on position 120 of the 175 territories and countries assessed (with a score of 31 out of 100). This meant Malawi had dropped from position 112 in the previous year’s assessment.
While it may be argued that perceptions are not necessarily the truth, they nevertheless form the basis for decision-making among potential investors and the development community. Over the years the Corruption Perception Index has undeniably become a point of reference in estimating the level of risks for business and development investments. Based on this understanding we consider the CPI as a basis for self-reflection and a tool for strategic engagement among governance stakeholders with a purpose to contribute to Malawi’s attainment of sustainable social and economic development.
On 21st February 2018 at 6 pm (GMT), Transparency International will officially launch the 2017 Corruption Perceptions Index in which Malawi has also been assessed among 183 countries and territories. In Malawi the official CPI launch will be held on Thursday 22nd February 2018 to provide an opportunity for sustaining a discussion on how Malawi can strategically deal with the issue of corruption in the country.