The Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) has started a review of how the Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) runs the Port of Mombasa. It aims to find weak spots that could expose port operations to corruption. The commission launched the exercise on Tuesday at KPA headquarters in Mombasa.
The review will cover KPA's systems, policies, procedures and practices, Capital FM reported. EACC is expected to recommend corrective measures to close loopholes and strengthen accountability in port management. According to Citizen Digital, the review will also examine the Authority's internal controls and day-to-day operational practices.
EACC Commissioner John Ogallo said the port's integrity was critical because it serves as a gateway for Kenya and several neighbouring countries. He warned that weaknesses in port operations could hurt cargo movement, the cost of doing business, regional competitiveness and economic growth. Ogallo said efficient operations must go hand in hand with transparency and accountability.
"An integrity-driven port need not be a slow port," Ogallo said. He added that a port with transparent, efficient and reliable systems is better placed to support legitimate trade. Such a port, he said, can also protect public revenue and win the confidence of investors and businesses.
KPA Corporation Secretary and General Manager for Board and Legal Services John Turasha Kinyanjui said the Authority remained committed to ethical conduct. He said integrity should go beyond following laws and regulations and guide everyday decisions. Kinyanjui said KPA manages critical national infrastructure and therefore has a duty to uphold high standards of professionalism, accountability and public service.
The examination is part of EACC's preventive approach to fighting corruption. Under this strategy, the commission looks for institutional weaknesses and recommends action before anyone can exploit them. EACC said it will work with KPA to tighten internal controls, seal loopholes and promote integrity in managing public resources and delivering services. For traders and importers, the commission's message is that a clean port need not be a slow one.