In a short time, OCA and its partners have made significant strides in exposing corruption and pushing for accountability. While dismantling kleptocracy is a long-term fight, our collective efforts are already yielding results. Here are some highlights of our impact so far:
- Exposing Scandals
OCA investigations and partner reports have shed light on major corruption scandals. For example, our Cameroon team revealed misuse of COVID-19 funds – empty field hospitals and missing donations – where officials profited while citizens suffered. In another case, journalists supported by OCA uncovered a 419 billion CFA Francs per year pangolin trafficking network linked to high-level actors, drawing attention to how natural resource smuggling feeds corruption. These stories, covered in our blog and media, have informed thousands of citizens and embarrassed corrupt authorities.
- Catalyzing Action
By publicizing abuses, OCA has helped spur responses from authorities. Notably, OCA celebrated when the United Kingdom imposed sanctions on notorious kleptocrats like Isabel Dos Santos (Angola’s ex-first daughter) and a Russian “shadow fleet” smuggling oil. These decisive actions by global powers reinforce efforts to safeguard Africa’s resources and uphold the rule of law. OCA’s public commendation of such sanctions amplifies the pressure on implicated officials and encourages other countries to take similar stands.
- Defending Advocates
OCA stands in solidarity against retaliation. When our board member Florindo Chivucute(FOA) was arbitrarily detained in Angola for his activism, OCA loudly condemned the incarceration, drawing international attention to his plight. He was released, and our advocacy sent a clear message that civil society will not be silenced. We have similarly supported other human rights defenders facing threats, helping secure their safety and spotlighting their work.
- Growing Awareness
Since launching the “Welcome to the #Kleptolands” video series, we have seen growing public discourse about kleptocracy. These short films – each focusing on one country’s story – have been shared on social media and shown in community meetings. They sparked conversations from Yaoundé to N’Djamena about government accountability. Local languages versions ensured the message reached grassroots audiences. Every view, share, and discussion is a step toward breaking the culture of silence around corruption.
- Coalition Expansion
Our coalition itself is a success story of unity for change. Starting with four founding organizations in 2018, we added a new member (FOA) two years later and continue to attract interest from others. This growing network means more resources, more expertise, and a louder collective voice demanding good governance in Central Africa.
We celebrate our successes, learn from setbacks, and keep our eyes on the ultimate objective: an Africa where public funds truly serve the public good.