Ford Motor’s owned charity entity Ford Foundation has committed to spend Sh2.5 billion in East African countries to combat corruption over the next 5 years.
The Foundation’s Regional Director Maurice Makoloo says the investment will also be used to support a stronger and expanded civil society; and strengthen coalitions across all sector to provide better service to citizens.
In his address, Makoloo said the impact of corruption on public trust goes beyond finances and cuts right across the fabric of society.
“We believe in putting our money where our mouth is and so it gives me great pleasure to announce that we are committing to spend $ 25 million in East Africa over the next 5 years to support this goal,” said Makoloo. He was speaking during a forum organized by the Foundation.
Director of Public Prosecutions Noordin Haji called on civil society to support government efforts in the fight and championed integrity issues in both the public and private sectors.
“Corruption causes inequality gaps, leading to skewed development, nepotism and unequal distribution of resources,” he said.
A report by Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission estimates that Kenya loses a third of its state budget, which is equivalent to about $6 billion – Sh603.8 billion to corruption every year.
Earlier this week, South Sudan was ranked the most corrupt country in East Africa followed by Burundi.
Kenya and Uganda tied in third position, according to the Corruption Perception Index 2019 report published by Transparency International.
This article was originally published on Capital FM.
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