DISASTER IN SOUTH AFRICAN LOCAL MUNICIPALITIES: CAUSES AND EFFECTS OF CORRUPTION ON SOCIO-ECONOMIC GROWTH
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.18623/rvd.v22.n2.3146Keywords:
Corruption, Economic Growth, Local Government, South African Municipalities, Organisational Performance, Socio-economyAbstract
This study investigates the causes and effects of corruption on socio-economic growth by critically reviewing the current literature on corruption within South African local municipalities, with a particular focus on the Mahikeng local municipality as a key example. Through a qualitative method of research, forty-five research articles were conveniently selected and analyzed. The findings reveal that corruption occurs at both the micro and macro levels of organizational management. At the micro level, municipal corruption stems from poor management, leadership, and inadequate implementation of organizational strategies. At the macro level, political interference plays a central role in causing and perpetuating corruption. The study suggests a strong positive correlation between political interference and corruption. Regarding the effects of corruption on socio-economic growth, this study found that corruption leads to the neglect of organizational capacity development and essential services, which in turn weakens organizational performance and, ultimately, economic performance. Weak economic performance slows job creation and exacerbates inequality. These outcomes hinder sustainable development and underscore the urgent need for stronger accountability and governance reforms.
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