The Challenges Associated with Corruption towards Public Service Delivery in Communities: A Case of South Africa
Abstract
The aim of this paper is to analyse the challenges associated with corruption towards public service delivery. Corruption is perceived as an abhorrent act committed by individuals or groups and has a particularly negative impact on other individuals, organizations, and communities. In South Africa, corruption cases are rampant, with authorities suspicious of specific organizations, regional leaders, and civilians. These activities can take place in the form of bribery, purchasing, and offering positions, and debasement in social help that negatively affects public service delivery. This study was conducted through a desktop study from which information has been obtained utilizing literature through scholarly journal articles, daily papers, government archives and other relevant documents related to the study. The study found numerous challenges associated with corruption towards public service delivery. The foremost conspicuous challenge found was the cost overrun. This challenge is taken after by three other imperative challenges such as destitute quality of work; destitute finance utilization; and delay in project completion. Moreover, these challenges are intertwined. For example, poor-quality work can lead to rework, project delays, and cost overruns. Practically, underutilization of funds is both a cause and a consequence of delays in project completion and cost overruns. Therefore, the paper concludes by stating that corruption plays a huge part in adversely affecting public service delivery in most communities in South Africa. As a result, the paper suggests that strategies that can address the challenges of corruption in public service delivery include capacity building, finding qualified and talented professionals, organizing audit forms and compliance, and enhancing accountability and transparency. This includes improving collaboration and communication between partners who are involved.
Copyright (c) 2023 Ritshidze Nethengwe, Dineo Sarah Malebana, Pearl Thobeka Mnisi
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