Corruption, counterfeit goods, and financial crime are robbing South Africa’s communities of opportunity — and it will take collective effort to stop it. This was the key message from the B20 Collective Action Against Financial Crimes side event, held on Tuesday at The Forum, Hyde Park, Johannesburg.
Hosted by the Consumer Goods Council of South Africa (CGCSA) in partnership with the Basel Institute on Governance, the event brought together business leaders, government officials, and civil society to discuss how to strengthen South Africa’s fight against corruption and the illicit economy.
Following the Money
In the first panel discussion, moderated by broadcaster Bongani Bingwa, panellists Jarred West (Spoor & Fisher), Karabo Rajuili (Corruption Watch), Lenore Oosthuizen (FTI), and Michelle Francis Padayachee (GS1 South Africa) unpacked how criminals exploit weak laws and digital systems to move money and goods illegally.
“Criminals are operating like businesses,” said West. “They plead guilty, pay a fine, and walk away. We need tougher legislation and a dedicated team to tackle corruption.”
Rajuili added that public reporting is crucial. “Reporting crimes can lead to investigations — and investigations lead to valuable data,” she explained. Padayachee also called for stronger whistle-blower protection, while Oosthuizen highlighted how technology could help border officials verify goods instantly.
Securing the Borders
Dr Michael Masiapato, Commissioner of the Border Management Authority (BMA), shared how his organisation — now just over two years old — is working to secure all entry points into the country.
The BMA was formed to unify the many agencies that previously handled border control, overseeing airports, seaports, and land crossings.
“Our goal is to manage the movement of people and goods while protecting our national economy,” said Masiapato. He added that new technology such as drones and scanning systems will soon help detect illegal goods, from drugs to counterfeit cigarettes.
Encouragingly, some progress is already visible. “At the Mozambique border, trucks that used to wait for days are now cleared in 30 minutes. Businesses are saving both time and money,” he said.
Working Together for a Fair Economy
The second panel, featuring Abraham Nelson (CGCSA), Dr Graham Wright (Business Against Crime SA), and Gregory Singh (SABRIC), focused on building a fair and competitive legal economy.
“The banking industry is tightening systems to make it harder for criminals to move money,” said Singh. Dr Wright added that government cannot fight this battle alone. “Business has the skills and resources to assist. Together we can rebuild trust and attract investment,” he said.
A New Force Against Counterfeiting
Closing the event, Lieutenant-General Tebello Mosikili, Deputy National Police Commissioner and Chair of NATJOINTS, announced the creation of the National Counterfeit Goods Unit (NCGU).
“This can’t be won by policing alone,” she said. “We need structured partnerships and smart regulation that make corruption unprofitable.”
A Call to Action
The B20 event made one thing clear — corruption and illicit trade are not victimless crimes. They drain resources from schools, hospitals, and small businesses.
By following the money and protecting every cent, speakers agreed, South Africa can begin to turn the tide — one partnership at a time.