Code of Ethics for Business In Kenya Receives Recognition from Basel Institute

The Code of Ethics for Business in Kenya has been recognized in the “Inspirational Newcomer” Category Award of the 2025 International Collective Action Awards, presented by the Basel Institute on Governance in Switzerland on 5 June 2025.

The Code of Ethics for Business in Kenya emerged top against other high-calibre finalists, including Madagascar’s Anticorruption Business Club (ABC) and the Collective Action Initiative on Integrity and Anti-Corruption in the Private Sector in Mexico.

The Global Compact Network Kenya (GCNK) launched the Code of Ethics for Businesses in Kenya, a principles-based initiative rooted in the Ten Principles of the United Nations Global Compact, particularly anti-corruption, with the mission to create a level playing field where ethical business practices serve as both a strategic advantage and a fundamental duty.

This global recognition celebrates exceptional efforts in promoting ethical business conduct and fighting corruption through collective action. The Code of Ethics for Businesses in Kenya unites private sector efforts in the fight against corruption.

With more than 800 companies endorsing the Code in Kenya, the initiative has gained significant traction since its inception in 2012, becoming a cornerstone in the promotion of ethical business conduct and integrity standards among the private sector in Kenya.

Executive Director, UN Global Compact Network Kenya Judy Njino noted that this global recognition affirms the bold steps Kenya’s private sector is taking to embed integrity at the heart of business. She added that The Code of Ethics for Businesses in Kenya stands as a beacon of collective action in the fight against corruption and a model of responsible business.

“This recognition is for every company in Kenya that has made a commitment to do business with integrity. It affirms that ethical conduct is a powerful force in our markets today. Together with our partners, KAM & KESPA, we are building a community of principled businesses that are redefining success by aligning profit with integrity. This award is a testament to the progress we can achieve when the private sector leads boldly and collectively in the fight against corruption.”

The Basel Institute on Governance is a hands-on centre of competence dedicated to promoting good governance and countering corruption for a more peaceful, just and sustainable world. Established in 2003 in Basel, Switzerland, the Institute works with partners worldwide to advance knowledge, practice and policy on anti-corruption, asset recovery and business integrity.

The Anti-Corruption Collective Action Awards acknowledge initiatives that showcase outstanding results, emerging best practices and innovation in the field of Collective Action to tackle corruption and raise standards of business integrity.