Master Builders KwaZulu-Natal is pleased to note that tangible steps are being taken to address corruption within the construction sector. To read the attached article that appeared in the Herald titled “Two arrested for extortion over Chatty police station” Click Here. 

International Anti-Corruption Day is held annually on 9 December.  

The theme of International Anti-Corruption Day was UNITED AGAINST CORRUPTION

United Against Corruption – Take action – Lead the change – Be the change: stresses that it is not enough to just know about corruption but that we need to take action, hold leaders accountable and become leaders of integrity ourselves.

Why is it important that we stand against corruption?

The United Nations estimates that every year over $ 1 trillion is paid in bribes while a further $ 2.6 trillion is stolen annually through corruption. This is more than 5% of the global GDP. In developing countries, the funds lost to corruption is estimated at 10 times the amount of official development assistance.

South African context

The monies paid in bribes and the money stolen through corruption has the following effect on the country’s economy:

• Funds are only spent on luxury goods or illegally transferred out of the country.
• Money is therefore effectively removed from the South African economy.
• This results in huge escalation in the cost of rates and services and stifles investment in the country.
• Ultimately, South Africa experiences less development of building and infrastructure projects.

We all need to stop this scourge of corruption for our country and for the future of our children.

Ross Stembridge | Building Services Manager