The Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) has called on surveyors in Kenya to uphold professional integrity and safeguard public land as part of efforts to combat corruption in the land sector. EACC Chairperson Dr David Oginde emphasized the importance of exercising diligence in decisions affecting land ownership, use, and management. He warned that land-related graft could have severe and long-lasting impacts.
Speaking at the Institution of Surveyors of Kenya (ISK) Africa Regional Conference in Naivasha, Oginde noted that land has historically been at the center of conflict in Kenyan society. He challenged surveyors to prioritize the public interest in their professional duties and ensure their work contributes to protecting the country's land heritage. This, he stressed, is crucial in preventing land-related corruption.
The EACC chairperson's remarks highlighted the responsibility of professionals in the land sector to uphold ethical standards in processes that influence land ownership, development, and management. Surveyors provide technical services that support land administration and development, making professional diligence and integrity essential in ensuring that land-related decisions are handled responsibly.
Oginde also underscored asset recovery as a key pillar of the commission's Strategic Plan, reaffirming EACC's commitment to reclaiming public assets. The commission's focus on asset recovery forms part of its broader mandate to combat corruption and protect public resources. This effort aims to recover unlawfully acquired assets and promote integrity in land management.
ISK President Eric Nyadimo also called on members of the professional body to uphold high standards in their work and pledged continued cooperation with the anti-graft agency. The two institutions signed a Memorandum of Understanding in September 2026 to strengthen collaboration in promoting integrity in the land sector. This agreement enables cooperation between the commission and the professional body.
The conference, taking place on October 29 and 30, 2026, is themed “Catalyzing Sustainable Investment: The Role of Surveyors in the Blue, Green, and Built Economies.” It examines the contribution of surveyors to sustainable investment, environmental protection, and infrastructure development, placing the profession's work within broader discussions on responsible resource management.
Oginde's warning comes amid continued concern over the consequences of land-related corruption, which can undermine public confidence, complicate land ownership, and deprive communities of resources meant for public benefit. The EACC's efforts to combat corruption in the land sector aim to promote accountability and protect public resources. Key initiatives include promoting integrity among practitioners and recovering unlawfully acquired assets.
Key points
- EACC Chairperson Dr David Oginde warns of severe consequences of land-related graft.
- Surveyors urged to prioritize public interest and uphold professional integrity.
- EACC and ISK collaborate to promote integrity in the land sector.
