Slaying the giant of corruption in Africa: analysing the rhetoric-reality gap under Africa agenda 2063

Purpose This study examines the rhetoric-reality gap in Africa’s anti-corruption efforts under Agenda 2063, focussing on the First Ten-Year Implementation Plan (2014–2023) and proposing revised strategies for the Second Ten-Year Implementation Plan (2024–2033) to anti-corruption efforts. Design/methodology/approach Using a mixed-methods approach, the study analyses Ibrahim Index of African Governance (IIAG) data (2014–2023) across 13 African countries, complemented by qualitative case studies. It uses progress, projection, and plan model to assess decade trends, projects to 2063, and sets 2033 targets. It utilises volatility analysis to capture non-linear dynamics. Findings The analysis reveals limited progress toward Agenda 2063’s 70% benchmarks, with only Benin and Tanzania showing notable progress. Botswana, South Africa, and Ethiopia, exhibit stagnation or regression due to political interference, elite impunity, and weak enforcement. The study critiques the symbolic nature of current anti-corruption reforms, which prioritize image building over capacity building. Practical implications The proposed Second Ten-Year Implementation Plan for the sample countries, along with the revised AU-wide Plan (2024–2033), emphasizes feasible reforms like digital governance, independent oversight, and citizen engagement to bridge the rhetoric-reality gap and advance sustainable anti-corruption progress. Social implications Addressing corruption fosters public trust and sustainable development, aligning with Agenda 2063’s vision. Originality/value This study critiques Agenda 2063’s fundamental misunderstanding of the nature of corruption and offers a revised Second Ten-Year Implementation Plan (2024–2033) for the AU, alongside new country-level plans for the sample countries during the same period. These proposals feature context-specific strategies to reduce corruption, contributing to governance literature.