U.S. Flags Rampant Bribery Demands from Kenyan Officials, Says Corruption Still a Major Barrier for Investors
The United States has once again raised the red flag over corruption in Kenya, accusing government officials of soliciting bribes from American investors seeking to win tenders. According to the 2025 National Trade Estimate (NTE) report by the United States Trade Representative’s office, corruption continues to undermine public procurement processes in the country.
The report cites multiple instances where U.S. firms faced extortion and bribery demands as a prerequisite to access government contracts. This follows a similar warning issued in 2024, in which corruption was named as one of the major barriers to trade between the two countries.
“Tenders are often not announced in a timely and transparent manner. Foreign firms, some without proven track records, have won government contracts when partnered with well-connected Kenyan firms or individuals,” the report reads.
Systemic Issues in Procurement and Customs
The report highlights flaws in Kenya’s Integrated Financial Management Information System (IFMIS), describing it as ineffective despite ongoing digitisation efforts. The U.S. pointed out issues such as poor connectivity in county offices, vulnerability to hacking, and frequent shutdowns controlled by central authorities, which create opportunities for manipulation.
The U.S. also criticised Kenya’s customs processes, calling them “complex and inefficient.” American businesses have complained about prolonged clearance times, inconsistent classification and valuation practices, and unnecessary transit inspections.
“There are too many uncoordinated offices and steps in the customs release process, leading to costly delays,” the report stated.
Concerns Over Counterfeit Goods and IP Protection
The U.S. Trade Representative’s office also noted the widespread availability of counterfeit and pirated products in the Kenyan market. Although Kenya signed the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) Copyright Treaty in 1996, it has yet to ratify it.
Additionally, the report criticized the lax enforcement of import regulations related to intellectual property, pointing out that Kenya’s customs recordation system and import permit rules are not properly implemented.
Kenya’s Efforts to Clean Up the System
In response to these persistent concerns, the Kenyan government has begun rolling out a new Electronic Government Procurement (e-GP) System aimed at curbing graft in national and county-level tenders. This system, integrated with IFMIS and backed by the International Monetary Fund (IMF), is expected to enhance transparency and accountability in public procurement.
The National Treasury projects that the new system will reduce procurement costs, shorten cycle times, and improve information management.
Still, the U.S. insists that unless concrete changes are seen in implementation and enforcement, Kenya may continue to struggle with investor confidence.
In other news: Renowned Human Rights Lawyer Pheroze Nowrojee Passes Away at 84
U.S. Flags Rampant Bribery Demands from Kenyan Officials, Says Corruption Still a Major Barrier for Investors