NAIROBI, Kenya- The Crime Journalists Association of Kenya has announced plans to launch a Crime Reporting Excellence Award aimed at recognising storytellers and state and non-state actors championing the fight against corruption.
Speaking during an anti-corruption workshop for media practitioners convened by the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission in Nairobi, CJAK Chairperson Joseph Muraya underscored the critical role journalists play in promoting accountability.
Muraya told the gathering that crime and investigative journalists remain at the frontline of exposing corruption, often operating under significant personal and professional risk.
“Corruption thrives in silence, and that is why your work matters,” he said.
The CJAK chairperson noted that journalists give voice to the truth and help safeguard the integrity of institutions.
He said the planned award scheme will honour individuals who have demonstrated courage and excellence in reporting on corruption, including storytellers whose work brings hidden injustices to light.
He also called on the anti-graft agency and other stakeholders to support the initiative, saying collaboration would be key in strengthening accountability efforts across the country.
The workshop brought together key players in the media and governance sectors, highlighting the importance of partnerships in tackling corruption.
Among those in attendance were Abdi Mohamud, Chairperson of the commission, David Oginde, and Court of Appeal Judge Patrick Kiage, who served as the chief guest.
Also present was Media Council of Kenya Chief Executive Officer David Omwoyo, reflecting the media regulator’s role in shaping ethical and impactful journalism.
The engagement focused on the media’s role in the fight against corruption, with calls for strengthened collaboration, ethical reporting, and protection of journalists covering sensitive investigations.
Muraya said the moment was not just timely, but necessary, as Kenya continues to grapple with corruption challenges across sectors.
Corruption in Kenya is a pervasive issue, with the country scoring 32/100 and ranking 121st out of 180 countries in the 2024 Corruption Perceptions Index by Transparency International.
It is a significant economic drain, losing an estimated Sh608 billion annually.
Key areas of graft include bribery, embezzlement, and nepotism, particularly within police services, public service hiring, and county governments, according to EACC reports.
