Tanzania Embarks on Steps to Combat Financial Crimes and Corruption
In a bold move to combat financial crimes and corruption, the United Republic of Tanzania has taken significant steps to strengthen its anti-corruption efforts. The country’s commitment to eradicating corruption was reaffirmed at the 10th Session of the Conference of States Parties to the United Nations Convention against Corruption in Atlanta, USA.
Notable Progress
According to a statement delivered by Tanzania’s representative, the country has made notable progress in implementing anti-corruption measures. Some of these measures include:
- Hosting the commemoration of the 20th Anniversary of the African Union Convention on Preventing and Combating Corruption
- Strengthening bilateral cooperation through Memorandums of Understanding with other Anti-Corruption Authorities and Partners
- Developing investigative and prosecutorial instruments, including:
- Mutual Legal Assistance Guidelines
- Investigation Checklist Manual
- Standard Operating Procedures for investigating and prosecuting corruption-related offenses
International Cooperation
Tanzania has also:
- Submitted numerous Mutual Legal Assistance requests related to corruption, money laundering, and other predicate offenses in various foreign jurisdictions
- Received and executed requests from foreign jurisdictions
- Participated in informal assistance networks, such as:
- Asset Recovery Inter-Agency Network of Eastern Africa
- Asset Recovery Inter-Agency Network of Southern Africa
- INTERPOL
Legislative Measures
The country has taken legislative measures to enhance the fight against corruption, organized crimes, and money laundering by:
- Amending relevant laws and regulations
- Launching anti-corruption initiatives aimed at preventing all forms of corruption prior to its occurrence, including:
- Public awareness campaigns
- Youth engagement programs
- Education policy reforms
Challenges and Commitment
Despite these efforts, Tanzania still faces challenges in providing feedback on Mutual Legal Assistance requests and variations in legal systems, which can hinder asset recovery efforts. However, the country remains committed to continuing cooperation and collaboration with state parties, international organizations, and regional bodies in the fight against corruption.
“We reaffirm our strong commitment, readiness, and determination to continue cooperating and collaborating with State Parties, international organizations, and other regional bodies in the fight against corruption,” said Tanzania’s representative.