Madagascar’s Anti-Corruption System Meets with UNODC Representative in Andraharo

Antananarivo, October 27th 2024 — Madagascar’s Anti-Corruption System held a meeting with Ms. Ashita Mittal, the new United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) Representative for East Africa, at the UN offices in Andraharo. Each entity outlined its mission and expectations for future collaboration with the UNODC. SAMIFIN (the Financial Intelligence Unit) highlighted several key points, reflecting its ongoing commitment to good governance and its already-initiated projects.

Construction of a Training Center

SAMIFIN showcased its ambitious project to build a training center, currently under development and set for imminent inauguration. This center aims to enhance human capital, aligning with the third strategic pillar of SAMIFIN’s five-year plan and the first pillar of its AML/CFT/CPF strategy. Proposed collaborations focused on establishing training programs, including the recruitment of trainers for both e-learning and in-person sessions. These programs will cover topics such as anti-money laundering and countering the financing of terrorism (AML/CFT), anti-corruption (LCC), and financial crimes.

Combating Maritime Crimes

Discussions also addressed maritime crimes, including illegal fishing and smuggling, which are among the UNODC’s key focus areas in Madagascar. The possibility of technical assistance to analyze the risks of money laundering linked to these criminal activities was explored. These initiatives underscore the importance of addressing such threats to the country’s economic security.

Preparation for the Mutual Evaluation

Lastly, SAMIFIN emphasized the need to recruit an expert mentor to guide a self-assessment of its AML/CFT/CPF framework. This preparatory exercise is critical for ensuring that Madagascar is well-equipped for the mutual evaluation scheduled for 2026.

This meeting marks a pivotal step in fostering collaboration between Madagascar’s anti-corruption institutions and the UNODC, further advancing the shared goal of strengthening governance and combating financial crime.