Christine Ombaka, a forensic investigator at Kenya's Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC), has been recognized as the winner of the 2026 Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) Global Public Sector Advocacy Award. This prestigious award is given to professionals who advance integrity and accountability in government institutions worldwide. The award ceremony was held on September 29, 2026, at the Integrity Centre in Nairobi.
The ACCA judging panel cited Ombaka's contributions across several specialized areas, including corruption investigations, forensic accounting, asset tracing, and the development of anti-corruption guidance frameworks. Her work in strengthening risk management systems within public institutions and mentoring upcoming professionals also earned her the award. Additionally, her active engagement with ACCA members, employers, and students in conversations around ethics and good governance was highlighted.
EACC Chief Executive Officer Abdi Mohamud expressed pride in Ombaka's achievement, stating that it reflects the professionalism and dedication of the Commission's officers. He emphasized that the EACC would continue to invest in the professional growth of its staff to enable them to make meaningful contributions to the fight against corruption. Mohamud's remarks were delivered by Director of Field Services and Coordination Jackson Mue at the ceremony.
The recognition of Ombaka's work carries significance beyond her individual achievement, according to George Njari, Head of the ACCA Eastern Africa Chapter. He stated that her dedication and commitment set a good example for her peers and the next generation of professionals. Njari added that Ombaka's achievement demonstrates the importance of professional expertise in promoting integrity and accountability in the public sector.
In her acceptance remarks, Ombaka chose to redirect the spotlight away from herself, dedicating the award to the Commission as a whole. She thanked EACC for the institutional support that had shaped her growth over the years, noting that the recognition was a reflection of the collective effort behind every investigation and accountability initiative the Commission undertakes.
The award win is a notable achievement for the EACC, highlighting the Commission's efforts in promoting integrity and accountability in Kenya. Ombaka's work in corruption investigations and asset tracing has contributed significantly to the country's anti-corruption landscape. Her achievement serves as a motivation for other professionals in the sector to continue working towards a corruption-free Kenya.
Ombaka's award win coincides with other developments at the EACC, including the court-ordered forfeiture of KSh 426.8 million in assets linked to former Kilifi Principal Land Registrar Felix Mecha Nyakundi, his wife, and associated companies. The assets included properties in Nairobi and Mombasa, bank and mobile money funds, vehicles, and cash. This development demonstrates the Commission's continued efforts in investigating and recovering proceeds of corruption.
Key points
- Christine Ombaka, a Kenyan forensic investigator, has won the 2026 ACCA Global Public Sector Advocacy Award for her work in corruption investigations and asset tracing.
- The award recognizes Ombaka's contributions to promoting integrity and accountability in government institutions, including her work in strengthening risk management systems and mentoring upcoming professionals.
- The EACC Chief Executive Officer Abdi Mohamud stated that Ombaka's achievement reflects the professionalism and dedication of the Commission's officers.
