Kenya has been selected to host the Centre for Anti-Corruption Studies and Research in Africa, a regional anti-graft body.
According to a statement by the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) on Thursday, January 11, the Centre will be established by the African Association of Anti-Corruption Authorities (AAACA).
EACC noted that the Centre will be used as a research zone for different programs and projects meant to end corruption in Africa among other governance matters.
“The decision was arrived at by a resolution of the General Assembly of AAACA during its Extraordinary Meeting held on Tuesday, 10th January 2024.
“The Centre will facilitate studies and research that will strengthen good governance and anti-corruption efforts in the Continent,” the statement read in part.
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EACC CEO On the Groundbreaking of the Centre
The commission’s CEO Twalib Mbarak welcomed the move adding that it places Kenya at an important position when it comes to the control, prevention, detection and investigation of corruption cases in Africa.
“Mr. Mbarak appreciated the trust bestowed upon Kenya by its regional peers to take up the responsibility of hosting the Centre.
“The establishment of the Centre marks a good opportunity for Kenya, especially in the areas of strengthening collaborations, strategies and opportunities in the fight against corruption,” added the statement.
The African Association of Anti-Corruption Authorities is established in accordance with the African Union Convention to promote the effective implementation of the African Union Convention on Preventing and Combating Corruption, and the United Nations Convention Against Corruption, to which Kenya is a signatory.
Also Read: Kenya Ranked 123 out of 180 Countries in Corruption Index
Kenya Ranking on Corruption in the World
According to the February 2023 Corruption Perception Index (CPI) report released by Transparency International, Kenya ranks at position 123 out of 180 countries worldwide in corruption.
Additionally, the international entity highlighted corruption as the main concern in many of the elections conducted during the 2022 general elections.
“Integrity of the vote itself also remained a concern. In Kenya (32), the election highlighted the urgent need for public scrutiny of political financing,” the report read in part.
