AFRICAN countries taken together lose over $125bn annually in cases of graft, equivalent to 50 percent of tax revenue and 25 percent of Gross Domestic Product (GDP), an expert with the African Union (AU) has declared.

Kwami Edem Senanu, the chairman of the African Union advisory board against corruption (AUABC) made this affirmation during the 50th ordinary session of the board opened on Monday and closing on Saturday this week.

This landmark session is a milestone in the board's ongoing mission to combat corruption and promote good governance across the continent, he said, urging AU member states to emulate Botswana and Rwanda, the two countries that have successfully curtailed corruption as a noticeable component in governance.

Benjamin Kapera, a board member, underlined that Africa has vast under-explored resources as previous leaders were tough in ensuring that resources are not handed out in a corrupt manner.

The session brings together board members to deliberate on critical anti-corruption initiatives, review progress and lay strategies for the future, with key agenda items for the session including the swearing-in of five newly elected board members, the meeting was told.

Official inauguration of new members will bring fresh perspectives and expertise to the board's vital work, the chairman said, affirming that delegates will adopt minutes of the 49th ordinary session, formally approving the records of its previous meeting for procedural integrity.

The session is slated to receive an activity report of the bureau, presenting a comprehensive report on its activities and decisions since the last session, the progress report on the 2025 AUABC work plan.

Members will receive and discuss a detailed update on the implementation of the board’s strategic work plan for the current year, assessing achievements and addressing challenges, he elaborated, pointing at the presentation of an update on the development of a harmonized code of conduct.

A pivotal discussion will focus on the progress made in developing a continental framework for a harmonized code of conduct for public officials, a key tool for preventing corruption, along with the board’s 17th activity report meant for presenting to the executive council

The board will finalize its comprehensive activity report to be submitted to the AU, detailing its efforts and impact, plus a report and discussion on the annual African Anti-Corruption Day, he stated.

The session will feature a review of the July 11 commemoration of the African Anti-Corruption Day and plan for future observances to amplify the continent's anti-corruption message. ”The AUABC remains dedicated to promoting and encouraging the adoption of anti-corruption measures by member states, in line with the African Union Convention on Preventing and Combating Corruption (AUCPCC),” he added.