EACC Report Shows Drop in Average Bribe Paid, But Interior Ministry Still Leads in Corruption

A new report by the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) reveals a notable drop in the average bribe paid by a Kenyan in 2024—Sh4,878, down from Sh11,625 in 2023. However, the fight against corruption is far from over, as the highest bribe recorded hit Sh243,651, mainly for county government jobs.

According to the report, bribery remains the most common form of corruption, with 52.1% of Kenyans witnessing the act of giving bribes in public offices. This was followed by receiving of bribes (41.9%), favoritism (22.5%), abuse of office (14.6%), tribalism and nepotism (11.8%), and embezzlement of public funds (11.7%).

The Ministry of Interior emerged as the most corrupt public institution, accounting for 48% of corruption reports, followed by the Ministry of Health (19.7%), National Treasury (5.8%), and the Ministry of Lands (4.7%).

Among professionals, police officers were perceived as the most unethical and corrupt at 27.6%, trailed by KRA officers (17.3%) and Chiefs (16.2%).

At the county level, Uasin Gishu led in the share of national bribes (11.12%), followed by Baringo (6.94%), Embu (5.54%), Homa Bay (5.32%), and Bomet (5.01%). Meanwhile, Elgeyo-Marakwet, Marsabit, and Wajir counties reported 100% bribery prevalence, making them the most affected, while Nyandarua (41%) and Makueni (35%) were the least affected.

Kenya Wildlife Service was named the institution receiving the highest share of national bribes at 35.73%, followed by NSSF (8.42%) and the Pensions Department of the National Treasury (7.15%).

Corruption was ranked the second most pressing national issue after unemployment, ahead of poverty, cost of living, healthcare challenges, poor infrastructure, and weak leadership.