African and Chinese officials have called for stronger cooperation to combat corruption and protect investments, as countries seek to expand industrial development and infrastructure projects across the continent.

The call was highlighted at the China-Africa Anti-Corruption Forum in Cairo, where participants discussed governance, enforcement and ways to strengthen cooperation around investment and development projects.

Amr Darwish, an Egyptian parliament member, said corruption remained a major economic challenge for Africa, citing estimates that the continent loses about $148 billion annually to corrupt practices. “There are no accurate statistics about the corruption levels in Africa, but research centers have calculated that corruption costs about $148 billion annually,” he said, adding that the figure represented about 25% of Africa’s gross domestic product.

The scale of the losses threatens resources that could otherwise support infrastructure, public services and industrial growth. The African Union has previously cited estimates of $148 billion in annual losses to corruption, although the precise cost is difficult to measure.

Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi said tackling corruption required coordinated action across the continent. “We have a deep conviction that combating corruption and changing our continent’s reality will not be achieved except through cooperation and executing joint African anti-corruption mechanisms,” he said, referring to Egypt’s adoption of laws aligned with the African Union Convention on Preventing and Combating Corruption.

Darwish also called for closer cooperation between Egypt, China and other African countries involved in the Belt and Road Initiative, saying China’s governance experience could inform efforts to expand infrastructure projects. The initiative is China’s global infrastructure and investment program, with Africa among its major recipients of investment and construction engagement.

Sabry El Gendy, an adviser to Egypt’s minister of local development and an anti-corruption expert, argued that awareness campaigns alone were insufficient to address graft. “Applying strict laws and imposing tough punishments without exceptions or favouritism will eradicate corruption,” he said, urging African and Arab countries to learn from China’s experience.

The forum underscored the economic importance of accountability as African countries seek investment to expand manufacturing, energy and transport infrastructure. Participants highlighted the need for stronger enforcement and cooperation to curb corruption, protect public resources and ensure that development projects deliver lasting benefits.