The Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) has recorded 94 corruption-related cases in the Erongo Region during the 2024-2026 financial years, of which 45 are still under investigation, while 21 are in courts.

ACC Director General, Bryan Eiseb, pledged to strengthen corruption prevention, improve inter-agency cooperation and engage the media frequently.

Dr. Eiseb made the remarks during a media briefing at Swakopmund, where he outlined the Commission's efforts to combat corruption and promote accountability.

In Erongo, a majority of the 94 cases reported involve bribery, fraud, abuse of public office and irregularities in public procurement.

Five cases were closed due to insufficient evidence, four were referred back to the ACC for further investigation and seven are awaiting a decision from the Prosecutor General.

The ACC chief added that 20 of the 45 active investigations were reported, while the remainder had accumulated over time.

Dr Eiseb said corruption continued to undermine service delivery, weaken public institutions and divert resources from essential sectors.

"We become the catalysers for ensuring that the social safety net is built in a conducive and a sustainable manner. Corruption weakens institutions, it undermines the rule of law, discourages investment and it erodes public confidence in government. It fuels inequality and thus defranchises a large segment of our population."

He stated that more than 700 matters had been registered with the ACC.

This, however, does not necessarily mean an investigation had been opened or that wrongdoing had been established.

"Whenever a matter is registered with the Anti-Corruption Commission, we need to make an initial determination whether there are grounds for investigation. It is only when we start or when we have done that assessment that we register an actual case for investigation."

Eiseb also called for stronger coordination among law enforcement and oversight institutions.

Erongo Governor Nathalia lGoagoses says the media has an important role in exposing corruption, promoting accountability and strengthening ethical governance.

Dr |Goagoses said a supportive environment for media practitioners is essential, though, to strengthen cooperation with the anti-corruption authorities.

"Rising awareness or raising awareness alone can inform the public on the causes, costs, and remedies of corruption. While investigation into the misdeeds exposes unethical behaviours and therefore breaks corruption scandals."

The governor stressed the initiative to enlist media support would help promote accountability and integrity in both public and private entities.