EACC moves to seal corruption loopholes at Mombasa Port

The Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) in Kenya has initiated a probe into the Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) systems to uncover weaknesses that could expose port operations to corruption and erode regional trade integrity. The commission aims to recommend corrective actions to plug potential loopholes and enhance accountability in managing port operations.

Speaking at KPA headquarters in Mombasa, EACC Commissioner John Ogallo emphasized that the Port of Mombasa's integrity is vital due to its strategic role as a trade gateway for Kenya and neighboring nations. He highlighted that port operation weaknesses could significantly impact cargo movement, business costs, regional competitiveness, and overall economic growth.

Ogallo stressed that a corruption-resistant port does not have to be inefficient; in fact, transparency, efficiency, and reliability in systems can better enable legitimate trade, safeguard public revenue, and build investor and business confidence. The investigation is part of EACC's preventive anti-corruption strategy, designed to pinpoint institutional vulnerabilities and propose interventions before they can be exploited for illicit gains.

Through this examination, the commission will collaborate with KPA to reinforce internal controls, plug corruption loopholes, and promote integrity in managing public resources and service delivery. KPA's Corporation Secretary and General Manager for Board and Legal Services, John Turasha Kinyanjui, reiterated the Authority's dedication to ethical behavior, stating that integrity should extend beyond mere compliance with laws and regulations to influence everyday decisions and operations.

Kinyanjui affirmed that KPA, responsible for managing vital national infrastructure and facilitating international trade, bears the responsibility to maintain the highest standards of professionalism, accountability, and public service.