A major anti-corruption conference held in Yaoundé has brought together representatives from twenty Commonwealth African nations to explore how artificial intelligence can be used to fight systemic corruption. The event, hosted by Cameroon’s National Anti-Corruption Commission, revealed that corrupt practices cost the country over 4 billion CFA francs in 2024 alone, based on thousands of reported cases. Officials emphasized that despite existing institutions and legal frameworks, corruption remains a persistent challenge across the region. Delegates discussed how AI could enhance detection, analysis, and prevention of illicit financial activities by processing large datasets and identifying suspicious patterns more efficiently than traditional methods. Experts also proposed the creation of shared digital platforms among Commonwealth countries to improve cross-border cooperation and intelligence sharing. While highlighting the potential of technology, speakers stressed that AI must complement strong governance systems and institutional reforms. The conference underscored a growing regional consensus that digital innovation could play a key role in strengthening transparency and accountability in public administration.
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