A Futile Fight Analysing the Ineffectiveness of Anti-Corruption Initiatives Against the Construction Mafia in South Africa
Phila Phakoana and Nishani Harinarain
DOI:
Keywords: Anti-corruption Measures, Construction Mafia; Infrastructure Governance; Organised Crime; Public Procurement
ABSTRACT
PURPOSE
As an important driver of employment and economic growth in South Africa, the construction industry is being threatened by organised crime groups known as “construction mafias.” These organisations undermine the provision of infrastructure and sustainable development by engaging in violence, bid rigging, and extortion.This paper aims to analyse the ineffectiveness of current anti-corruption initiatives in mitigating the activities of “construction mafias” within the South African construction sector and to provide recommendations for more effective strategies.
DESIGN / METHODOLOGY / APPROACH
This study employs a comprehensive literature review, screening 32 articles published between 2016 and 2025. Qualitative content analysis was applied to extract and synthesize relevant information regarding anti-corruption measures and their impact on construction mafia activities in South Africa.
FINDINGS
Despite the implementation of strategies such as open contracting, intelligence-led policing, and whistleblower protections, the study found these measures to be significantly limited. Their ineffectiveness stems from systemic obstacles including disjointed governance, weak enforcement mechanisms, pervasive socioeconomic inequality, and the cultural normalisation of corruption within the sector.
RESEARCH LIMITATIONS
The primary limitation of this research is its reliance on existing literature, which may not capture the full scope of ongoing anti-corruption efforts or the most recent developments in combating construction mafia activities.
WHAT IS THE ORIGINAL / VALUE
This research contributes to both academic knowledge and practical governance This paper provides a critical assessment of systemic challenges hindering anti-corruption efforts against construction mafias and proposes a more stringent and integrated interventions, including contractor blacklisting, transparent e-procurement, specialised law enforcement units, and legislative reforms. This goes beyond generic recommendations by emphasising the need to address underlying socioeconomic issues and integrate strategies within the National Anti-Corruption Strategy for sustainable impact.
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