Fighting Corruption: Practices and Processes

Posted on December 9, 2009 by Jolyne Sanjak, Managing Director, Technical Support

Almost nine months ago, MCC released a comprehensive policy and procedures to prevent, detect, and remediate fraud and corruption in MCC-funded activities. As we mark International Anti-Corruption Day, MCC is proud of the many steps we have taken toward the effective implementation of this policy.

Effective implementation begins with an effective understanding of the policy. As soon as the policy was released, we turned our attention to communicating the details of MCC’s policy and the next steps toward its implementation. Particular emphasis was placed on ensuring that prevention, detection and remediation of fraud and corruption in MCC-funded activities is understood to be everyone’s responsibility at MCC.  MCC has also made it a point to brief MCA partner country staff and external stakeholders.

MCC has also made progress on a number of actions outlined in the policy including:

• A resource guide with tools and techniques for MCC and MCA;
• A methodology for conducting risk assessments is being developed;
• Development of a training course and technical support for our country counterparts;
• Coordination with the Office of Inspector General on all allegations of fraud and corruption.

MCC will continue to actively pursue the more comprehensive, consistent, and explicit approach to the prevention, detection, and remediation of fraud and corruption in every facet of our operations as the principles-based policy sets forth.  This policy complements MCC’s overarching emphasis on good governance, with a particular focus on the control of corruption.  These good governance elements of MCC’s contribution to reducing corruption are implemented through our selection indicators and through our programs.

International Anti-Corruption Day serves as a firm reminder that corruption is an obstacle to sustainable development, poverty reduction, and economic growth, and that is why MCC will continue to stand up against corruption.

Listening for greater opportunities, innovations

Posted on December 4, 2009 by Daniel W. Yohannes, Chief Executive Officer

President Obama and Secretary of State Clinton are committed to expanding opportunities for the world’s poor.  As I shared with the Senate Foreign Releations Committee during my recently-concluded confirmation process, I am grateful for the opportunity to contribute to their efforts to fight poverty through MCC.

My first week on the job as MCC’s new CEO has been even more rewarding than I anticipated.  Before being confirmed, I had heard many times about the professionalism, dedication, and talents of the men and women who work at MCC.  Now that I’m onboard, I can attest to this.  This new challenge is energizing, and I look forward to working with these accomplished professionals to make a difference in the lives of the poor around the world.

As I begin my work at MCC, one of my most important tasks is to listen.  Listening closely to those not only at MCC headquarters, but also in partner countries, in Congress, and in the development community will provide insightful feedback on what works well and what could be tackled with more innovation.

Listening will inform action.  It will continue to position MCC as a vital part of the future of foreign aid.  As I shared in every one of my conversations this week, I am committed to action that will broaden and sustain opportunities for the world’s poor.  Sound policies, grounded in good governance, will create an environment that nurtures opportunities.  Building the capacity of countries to lead their development in close cooperation and coordination with other U.S. Government and international donors will empower partners to expand opportunity.  Fostering pro-growth strategies will attract greater participation from the private sector.  This is the engine of innovation, opportunity, and jobs that powers long-term, sustainable development.

Next week, Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton, who chairs MCC’s Board of Directors, has graciously agreed to preside at my swearing-in ceremony.  We will be together again a day later for my first MCC Board meeting.  I will be sharing the outcomes of that meeting with you at our outreach event next Thursday.  Join us then, and always feel free to contact us with your thoughts on MCC.  I’m listening and want to hear from you.