Lands Commission Tops List for Receiving Highest Bribes Among Ghanaian Workers, UNODC Survey Reveals
Ghana’s Lands Commission has taken the lead in receiving the highest number of bribes from citizens seeking the commission’s services, according to a recent survey conducted by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) in 2021.
On average, workers at the Lands Commission are reported to receive an amount of GHC 1,669 in bribes. Following closely are prosecutors, judges, and magistrates, who receive an average of GHC 1,208 in bribes. The next tier of workers includes officials from the Ghana Immigration Service, who are reportedly offered an average of GHC 950 in bribes.
On the lower end of the spectrum, health workers other than doctors, nurses, and midwives receive the least amount of bribes, averaging GHC 91.
The UNODC survey highlights the substantial variation in the size of cash bribes in Ghana, influenced by factors such as the nature of the service sought, economic motivations behind the bribery, and the geographical location of the bribes. The study also notes varying bribe amounts according to the type of public official receiving them.
Corruption remains a significant challenge in Ghana, drawing attention from both politicians and the general public. Despite efforts to combat corruption, tangible progress remains limited. The UNODC report sheds light on the extent and distribution of corruption, revealing key areas where the issue is most prevalent.