Strengthening the Implementation of the Code of Ethics (SICoE) for Business in Kenya

Promote a culture of ethics and integrity within the business community in Kenya

The Code of Ethic for Business in Kenya aims to foster a culture of integrity and ethical business conduct in the country by encouraging private sector entities to voluntarily adopt and implement anti-corruption practices and self-regulation.

The initiative’s main objectives are to:

• Raise ethical standards and integrity within industries in Kenya;
• Foster a business environment free from corruption, bribery, and other unethical practices;
• Encourage fair competition and a level playing field for all businesses;
• Stregthen trust between the private sector, public sector, and civil society.

The Code of Ethic for Business in Kenya was originally launched in 2012 with 44 signatories. Since its relaunch in 2024, over 840 companies have signed on the Code.

The initiative is hosted by the Global Compact Network Kenya (GCNK) in partnership with the Kenya Association of Manufacturers (KAM) and the Kenya Private Sector Alliance (KEPSA).

KAM and KEPSA play a critical role in integrating the Code’s principles into their operations and promoting ethical practices among their members.

Government bodies, including the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC), support the initiative through enforcement of anti-corruption laws and policy development.

CSOs like Transparency International Kenya advocate for transparency, monitor compliance, and amplify the initiative’s outreach.

The initiative is funded through in-kind and monetary contributions from participating organizations, donor funding, and grants. It was also funded by the Siemens Integrity Initiative.

The initaitive focuses on the following activities:

• Development and promotion of the Code: Businesses are engaged to sign and commit to the Code of Ethics, which undergoes periodic updates to reflect best practices and emerging issues
• Training and capacity building: Workshops, seminars, and educational materials are provided to equip businesses with the knowledge and skills to implement ethical practices. A new digital platform offers tools, resources, and data to support companies in their anti-corruption compliance journey.
• Monitoring and evaluation: Regular assessments of the implementation of the Code and feedback mechanisms ensure continuous improvement of the initiative.
• Advocacy and awareness campaigns: Public awareness campaigns promote the importance of integrity, with media and civil society amplifying these efforts.
• Collaboration and stakeholder engagement: Forums and dialogues bring together private, public, and civil society actors to share knowledge and develop anti-corruption measures.