The effectiveness of anti-corruption agencies (ACAS) in combating corruption: a comparative analysis of Burundi and Tanzania

Given the toxic consequences and pervasiveness of corruption, countries have considered introducing specialised ACAs to counter the phenomenon. These bodies, in order to be successful, must meet a certain number of requirements: a comprehensive strategy based on education, prevention and enforcement; independence, accountability, adequate staff, sufficient enforcement powers backed with adequate enabling legislation, strong complementary institutions, macroeconomic factors and international cooperation. The implementation of those standards varies from country to country. The comparison of Burundi and Tanzania attests to that. In Burundi the SACB is an investigative body, while in Tanzania, the PCCB has extensive functions including education, prevention, investigation and prosecution. These ACAs have in common the lack of independence, lack of enough resources and a weak accountability mechanism. Concerning the human resources, despite efforts to ensure specialisation, ensuring effective recruitment and management of the staff remain a challenge. Both the SACB and the PCCB are empowered to detect corruption offences. However, the defective complaint system on both sides reduces their effectiveness. Both ACAs have police powers and special powers to investigate corruption. Nevertheless, there are institutional, organizational and legal factors that curtail the effective use of those powers. Consequently, the capacity of the SACB and the PCCB is stumpy. Moreover, they have in common the small fish syndrome. Therefore there is a need to reconsider their legal and institutional frameworks.