Kenya wins bid to host key regional anti-graft body

CaptionThe Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) CEO Twalib Mbarak. [File, Standard]

Kenya will play host to the Centre for Anti-Corruption Studies and Research in Africa (CEREAC) that is aimed at aiding investigations and the fight against corruption across the continent.

The East African country submitted a bid to host the anti-graft body in October 2023, going up against Egypt.

Kenya won with 210 points against Egypt's 191.

Making the announcement, the Ethics and Anti-Corruption (EACC) Chief Executive Officer Twalib Mbarak said the decision was arrived at by a resolution of the General Assembly of the African Association of Anti-Corruption Authorities (AAACA).

"The Centre will play an important role in facilitating the development and harmonization of strategies for the prevention, detection, investigation, and control of corruption and related offenses in Africa, said Mbarak.

The African Association of Anti-Corruption Authorities was established in accordance with the African Union (AU) Convention which is aimed at promoting effective implementation of the AU Convention on preventing and combating corruption.

"The establishment of the Centre marks a good opportunity for Kenya, especially in the areas of strengthening collaborations, strategies, and opportunities in the fight against corruption," Mbarak added.

EACC will represent Kenya as a member of the AAACA.