EACC’s examination targets corruption risks in Kenya Ports Authority operations.
The anti-corruption commission will examine port policies and procedures and recommend measures to strengthen accountability.
The Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) has launched a KPA systems review to identify corruption risks in port operations. The exercise covers the Kenya Ports Authority’s systems, policies, procedures and practices.
EACC will recommend corrective measures to address weaknesses and strengthen accountability. The commission launched the examination at KPA headquarters in Mombasa.
KPA systems review targets preventive controls
The examination forms part of EACC’s preventive approach to tackling corruption. It aims to identify institutional weaknesses before anyone exploits them for corrupt purposes.
Through the exercise, EACC will work with KPA to strengthen internal controls and address potential corruption loopholes. The effort also seeks to promote integrity in public resource management and service delivery.
At the launch, EACC Commissioner John Ogallo stressed the importance of the Port of Mombasa’s integrity. He noted that it connects Kenya and several neighbouring countries to international markets.
Because of that regional role, Ogallo said operational weaknesses could have consequences beyond the port. He highlighted risks to cargo movement, business costs, regional competitiveness and economic growth.
Integrity and efficiency in port operations
Ogallo said stronger institutional controls should ensure that operational efficiency goes hand in hand with transparency and accountability. He also argued that integrity need not slow port operations.
Instead, transparent, efficient and dependable systems would better support legitimate trade, he said. Such systems would also help protect public revenue and build confidence among businesses and investors.
For KPA, Corporation Secretary and General Manager for Board and Legal Services John Turasha Kinyanjui reaffirmed its commitment to ethical conduct. He said integrity should guide daily decisions and operations, rather than stop at compliance with laws and regulations.
Kinyanjui also pointed to KPA’s responsibility for critical national infrastructure and international trade. He said that role required high standards of professionalism, accountability and public service.
