KWS launches anti-corruption policy, code of conduct as reforms continue

The Kenya Wildlife Service in conjunction with United Nations Office of Drugs and Crime has launched a corruption prevention policy and code of conduct.

The two documents, developed jointly by KWS and ONODC, are aimed at modernizing and governing the working norms and techniques of the service.

The documents have been crafted in line with new government policies and legislation in order to orient the Kenya Wildlife Service with Kenya’s legal framework.

UNODC Director, Division for Operations, Miwa Kato, praised the steering committee led by the chairman Arthur Osore for their efforts and work that led to the documents’ launch.

“I am glad today that we are launching documents which are going to provide a long-lasting remedy for our integrity in our working environment,” he said.

The code requires all KWS staff to be committed to their core values, namely passion, professionalism, innovation and quality in addition to creating an environment that enhances ethics, honesty, integrity, compliance and respect for employees and stakeholders.

KWS Board of Trustees Chairman – John Waithaka, challenged KWS staff to be ambassadors of integrity and act as perfect examples to be emulated by other state organs.

“Under my leadership, I would like you to see KWS as corruption free organisation,” he said.

Established in 1997, UNODC is a global leader in the fight against illicit drugs and international crime.

Through a merger between the United Nations Drug Control Program and the Centre for International Crime Prevention, UNODC operates in all regions of the world through its network of field offices.

Addressing emerging trends and dynamics of corruption in Kenya, KWS Director General Brigadier John Waweru vowed to implement the two documents and walk through the path of integrity and ensure its success.

“Our chairman Board of Trustees Dr Waithaka and our partners from UNODC, I want to assure you that I will ensure the successful implementations of these two documents and that they become our guide in the fight against corruption,” he stated.

Additional reporting and information by www.capitalfm.co.ke