The Kenya Governance Report 2014 is the fourth in a series by the Africa Centre for Open Governance. Every year, AfriCOG reviews the events of the past year as they relate to critical issues and developments in governance reform and efforts against corruption, analyses their implications, and makes recommendations for the future.
The Kenya Governance Reports have developed over time into a valued resource ongovernance and anti-corruption for our partners in civil society, the public sector, the international community and the general public.
Major concerns in 2014 are corruption and insecurity. Corruption continues unabated, despite numerous pronouncements from the presidency and the government that its elimination would be a priority.
Security remains a primary concern for the majority of Kenyans, as they face unprecedented random attacks of violence,originating both internally and externally.
It is impossible to ignore the links between corruption and insecurity. A holistic strategy that takes into account current thinking, best practice on the issues, as well as changing circumstances, will need to be developed. Insecurity in the 21st century cannot be countered with traditional methods. A new approach is long overdue.
Without focused and principled leadership, corruption will continue to flourish and negate any progress. Kenya must move beyond the rhetoric that has become all too common and take measures that demonstrate seriousness in attacking corruption, starting with the punishment of corrupt officials and individuals to the fullest extent of the law.