EACC Sounds Alarm on Fake Certificates in Public Service

The Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission has raised concern over the increasing use of forged academic and professional certificates in Kenya’s public sector.

Speaking during the inaugural Ethics and Integrity Conference in Nairobi on Wednesday, EACC Secretary and CEO Abdi A. Mohamud said the commission has handled 549 cases since 2022.

Out of these, 134 files have been completed, 85 forwarded to the Director of Public Prosecutions, and 20 cases concluded in court with 13 convictions.

Mohamud said the Commission has prioritised the recovery of salaries and benefits earned through fake credentials.

He said the issue has become serious enough to warrant joint efforts by government agencies, academic institutions and employers.

Chief of Staff and Head of Public Service Felix Koskei said the problem affects nearly all sectors of government.

“Falsified certificates have been found in the national and county governments, in parastatals and in commissions,” he said.

Koskei warned that the trend undermines merit-based recruitment and puts the country’s image at risk, especially as Kenya seeks to export labour abroad.

He said his office will issue a circular holding accounting officers responsible for irregular recruitment and called for strict compliance with vetting procedures.

He also announced plans to form a joint task force involving EACC, DCI, ODPP, KNEC and other agencies to fast-track investigations and prosecutions.

The conference, hosted by EACC, brought together public officials, development partners and civil society to discuss ways to restore credibility in academic and professional qualifications.

Mohamud said the meeting will be held annually to promote multi-sectoral dialogue on integrity.

Koskei said lasting solutions will require commitment from all stakeholders.