EACC flags governance gaps in Kenya’s co-operative sector, calls for stronger controls to curb corruption

The Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) in Kenya has raised concerns over governance gaps within the country's co-operative sector, urging for stronger controls to curb corruption. In a report presented to the State Department for Co-operatives, the EACC highlighted weaknesses in governance, internal controls, and oversight mechanisms that could potentially enable corruption.

These gaps were identified across key institutions such as the Sacco Societies Regulatory Authority (SASRA), New Kenya Co-operative Creameries Limited (New KCC), and the New Kenya Planters Co-operative Union. EACC Commissioner Alfred Mshimba emphasized the critical importance of addressing these issues to protect billions of shillings of resources meant for the benefit of millions of Kenyans who depend on co-operative institutions for financial services.

The Commission recommended strengthening governance, improving oversight, and enhancing internal controls as urgent reforms to mitigate corruption risks. Principal Secretary for the State Department for Co-operatives, Patrick Kilemi, acknowledged the report and pledged the department's commitment to implementing the recommendations and working closely with EACC to enhance transparency and accountability in the sector.

The reforms are expected to bolster institutional resilience against corruption and ensure better protection of co-operative resources, ultimately benefiting the millions of Kenyans who rely on these institutions for economic opportunities and welfare.

Brief written by urgent.news from Capital Business's own syndicated text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.