By Urban Shihemi, December 9, 2025

The youth in the country have been urged to take a frontline role in combating corruption, which leaders say is robbing them of opportunities and destroying the country’s future.

The call was made during the International Anti-Corruption Day 2025 held in Nairobi under the theme,“Uniting with Youth Against Corruption: Shaping Tomorrow’s Integrity.” where top government officials and international partners emphasized the critical role of young people in demanding accountability.

Speaking at the event, the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) Chief Executive Officer Abdi Mohamud,warned that corruption remains the greatest threat to Kenya’s development and the wellbeing of its young population.

“Corruption is stealing your future your jobs, your education, your healthcare, your dreams. If we do not confront it boldly, it will continue to suffocate progress in every sector,” the CEO said. He urged youth to refuse to participate in corrupt practices and instead become active champions of integrity in their communities, schools, workplaces and online.

Echoing his remarks, the EACC Chairperson Dr. David Oginde emphasized that the fight against corruption cannot be left to institutions alone.

“The youth are the largest demographic in Kenya. If you choose integrity, the nation will follow. You have the power to turn the tide against graft, but silence and indifference only empower the corrupt,” he said. 

The Cabinet Secretary for Youth Affairs, Creative Economy and Sports Hon Salim Mvurya called on young Kenyans to harness the power of technology to expose corruption and hold leaders accountable.

“Technology is your strongest weapon. Use it to demand transparency, track public projects, expose misuse of funds, and organize for accountability ,” the CS said. “ We share the conviction with the world that corruption is not only a crime, but a profound injustice; one that steals opportunity, erodes trust, and undermines the promise of our nation,” he added.

International partners also expressed concern over the impact of corruption on Kenya’s economic wellbeing. Dr. Barnett Charge’ d’Affaires the British High Commission linked the country's persistent poverty to mismanagement of public resources.

“Let us be honest, poverty in Kenya is not due to lack of resources, but due to corruption. When public funds are diverted, hospitals remain empty, schools lack materials, and young people lack opportunities. Ending corruption is key to ending poverty,” he noted.

The International Anti-Corruption Day, marked every year on December 9, highlights the global commitment to fighting graft.