Kenya has been ranked 121st out of 180 countries in the latest 2024 Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI), highlighting persistent corruption issues despite minor progress.
The index, released by Transparency International, awarded Kenya a score of 32 out of 100, reflecting a slight improvement from 31 points in the previous year. However, Kenya still falls below the Sub-Saharan Africa average of 33 and remains significantly lower than the global average of 43.
Transparency International’s Assessment
According to Transparency International Kenya’s Executive Director, Sheila Masinde, the slight improvement does little to address the country’s deep-rooted corruption challenges.
“A one-point improvement is not enough. Kenya continues to struggle with deep-rooted corruption that undermines service delivery and economic growth,” Masinde stated.
East African and Global Rankings
- Rwanda led East Africa with 57 points, an increase from 53 in 2023.
- Tanzania saw a slight improvement from 40 to 41 points.
- Uganda maintained a score of 26.
- Burundi declined from 20 to 17 points.
Across Sub-Saharan Africa, Seychelles ranked highest with 72 points, followed by Cabo Verde (62), Botswana (57), and Mauritius (51).
Globally, the top-performing countries were:
- Denmark (90 points)
- Finland (88 points)
- Singapore (84 points)
The worst-ranked countries included:
- South Sudan (8 points)
- Somalia (9 points)
- Venezuela (10 points)
Call for Accountability and Action
The report warned that corruption remains rampant worldwide, driven by declining democracy, human rights violations, and environmental mismanagement.
Masinde urged Kenyans to remain vigilant and demand accountability.
“Kenyans must remain relentless in demanding accountability because corruption thrives where scrutiny is weak. By consistently questioning those in power, exposing wrongdoing, and refusing to stay silent, we can push back against impunity, protect human rights, and build a transparent, just society.”
Corruption and Climate Change
The report further highlighted how corruption complicates global efforts to combat climate change. The diversion of critical resources and the weakening of environmental governance obstruct urgent measures needed to address the crisis.
Kenya’s continued struggle against corruption underscores the need for greater transparency, stronger institutions, and more citizen involvement in holding leaders accountable.
