The fight against corruption cannot be left to a few; it requires collective action across all generations. Yet, as observed during the International Anti-Corruption Day 2024 commemorations held at Strathmore University on December 9, youth remain the untapped force in this critical struggle.

Themed ‘Uniting with Youth Against Corruption: Shaping Tomorrow’s Integrity,’ the event brought together national and international leaders, stakeholders, and young advocates to amplify the role of the youth in championing a culture of accountability and transparency.

“We are challenging the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission to involve us more in fighting corruption. Yes, the EACC is doing its part, but honestly, how many young commissioners do we see here?” These stirring words from Ken Babu, The Programs Admin at the Kenya Young Parliamentarians Association (KYPA), captured the essence of the day, reverberating through Strathmore University’s Main Auditorium.

The commemoration, hosted by Strathmore University in collaboration with the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC), spotlighted the youth as the driving force in the fight against corruption. With their boundless energy, creativity, and resilience, they were urged to step up as decision-makers and transformative agents of change.

Corruption, described as a pervasive issue that undermines governance, trust, and development, was dissected through diverse perspectives from national and international figures. Dr. Jane Wathuta, Dean of the Strathmore Law School, set the tone in her welcome remarks, emphasizing the importance of nurturing integrity as a culture. “Normalize doing right even when nobody’s watching,” she urged.

Dr. Vincent Ogutu, Vice Chancellor of Strathmore University, cited Kenyan author Ken Walibora’s Siku Njema to envision a brighter, corruption-free future. “If we didn’t have corruption, we wouldn’t need institutions fighting it,” he remarked. Dr. Ogutu called for in-depth research to uncover the root causes of corruption and challenged leaders to exemplify integrity in their daily lives.

Ms. Gloria Wawira, CEO of the National Youth Council (NYC), rallied Kenyan youth to take a stand, noting their unique vulnerability to corruption’s effects. She highlighted issues such as unemployment, governance gaps, and inadequate healthcare as areas where corruption intensifies challenges. “The young people of this country and the National Youth Council are ready to partner in fighting corruption,” she affirmed.

Ms. Sheila Masinde, Executive Director of Transparency International-Kenya, posed a saddening  question: “What will you say to your children 25 years from now when they ask what you did to fight corruption?” She called for accountability, integrity, and collective action.

International voices like Ms. Maureen Mimnaugh, Director of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs, and H.E. Neil Wigan, British High Commissioner to Kenya, highlighted the global implications of corruption. They emphasized its role in breeding inequality, instability, and underdevelopment. “Corruption drains resources that could be used to address critical issues like healthcare and education,” H.E. Wigan noted, while encouraging youth to leverage technology, such as artificial intelligence and social media, in their fight.

H.E. Ambassador Henriette Geiger of the European Union emphasized Kenya’s capacity to transform through eradication of corruption, drawing comparisons to Singapore’s remarkable development. “If you cut corruption, you have more than enough money to go around,” she declared.

EACC Chairperson, Dr. David Oginde reminded attendees that the youth are not just the future but the present. He acknowledged their energy and passion while urging them to remain steadfast in their convictions, inviting young people to actively participate in anti-corruption initiatives and legal policy advocacy.

“I challenge you to develop a strong moral conscience,” Dr. Oginde asserted. “When you have moral conviction, it doesn’t matter whether someone is watching or not. You will always choose to do the right thing. Refuse to participate in corrupt activities! Refuse to cheat in exams! Refuse to acquire fake certificates! Refuse to bribe for jobs! Refuse to sell your vote! Say no to corruption!”

The message from the International Anti-Corruption Day was clear. Institutions need to prioritize youth inclusion, recognizing that corruption thrives where voices are silenced. It is time to shift the narrative, engage the youth meaningfully, and work towards a corruption-free Kenya where everyone, young or old, is a custodian of integrity. The future we envision depends on the actions we take today, and we are ready to lead from the front.

Article written by Evans Ijakaa.