Nairobi, Kenya – Kenya has been ranked among countries experiencing high levels of corruption with no signs of progress, according to the 2025 Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI) released by Transparency International on February 10.
Kenya’s Declining Score
The report shows Kenya’s score dropped to 30 out of 100, down from 32 in 2024, placing the country at position 130 out of 181 nations. Transparency International categorized Kenya among countries where corruption remains a serious threat, with limited evidence of improvement.
Kenya also fell below the Sub-Saharan African average of 32, positioning it among the lower-performing nations in a region already struggling with entrenched corruption.
Regional Comparison
Kenya trails behind its East African peers:
- Rwanda – Score: 58 (least corrupt in Eastern Africa, showing progress since 2024)
- Tanzania – Score: 40 (a step back compared to 2024)
- Uganda and DR Congo – High corruption levels
- Burundi, Somalia, South Sudan – Critical state of corruption
Drivers of Corruption
Transparency International highlighted abuse of power as a major driver of corruption, enabled by:
- Roll-back of democratic checks and balances
- Attacks on independent civil society
- Weak enforcement of accountability mechanisms
The report also noted a rise in civic actions against corruption, pointing to global anti-government protests as evidence that populations are increasingly demanding reform.
Global Call to Action
François Valérian, Chair of Transparency International, urged governments to act with integrity:
“At a time when we’re seeing a dangerous disregard for international norms from some states, we’re calling on governments and leaders to act with integrity and live up to their responsibilities to provide a better future for people around the world.”
The organization advocates for:
- Renewed political leadership on anti-corruption
- Protection of civic space
- Closing secrecy loopholes that enable graft
Conclusion
Kenya’s declining CPI score underscores the urgent need for stronger anti-corruption measures. As regional peers like Rwanda show progress, Kenya’s struggle highlights the importance of political will, institutional reforms, and civic engagement in tackling corruption.
