Prof Kivutha Kibwana, Chancellor of International Leadership University-Kenya, has emphasized the need for institutions to integrate accountability into their daily operations. Speaking at the 15th Champions of Governance Awards gala dinner in Nairobi, Kibwana urged organizations to assess leadership integrity and consider individual character when evaluating performance and suitability for responsibility. This call comes amid growing demands for stronger governance practices in Kenya. Kibwana's remarks underscored the importance of making accountability a practical aspect of institutional operations.
The Champions of Governance Awards, organized by the Institute of Certified Secretaries (ICS), recognizes organizations and individuals for their governance practices. The awards assess organizations on several parameters, including board effectiveness, ethical leadership, accountability, risk management, transparency, and disclosure. The evaluation process involves self-assessment by participating organizations, independent reviews by governance audit consultants, and a final decision by an independent jury. This year's awards covered various sectors, including banking, public sector entities, education, and SMEs.
Kibwana's advocacy for stronger institutional accountability and ethical leadership resonates with the objectives of the Champions of Governance Awards. The awards aim to promote good governance practices and recognize outstanding performance in leadership and accountability. By acknowledging and rewarding organizations that demonstrate exemplary governance practices, the ICS seeks to encourage others to adopt similar standards. The recognition of the Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS) during the ceremony highlights the achievements of institutions that have prioritized good governance.
The Institute of Certified Secretaries (ICS) plays a crucial role in promoting good governance practices in Kenya. As a professional body, ICS provides training, certification, and support to secretaries and other governance professionals. The organization's efforts focus on enhancing the capacity of institutions to serve their stakeholders effectively. By partnering with other organizations to strengthen institutional capacity, ICS contributes to the development of a robust governance framework in Kenya.
The 15th Champions of Governance Awards also recognized individual achievements in governance, including the Chief Executive Officer of the Year, Chairperson of the Year, and Corporate Secretary of the Year. These awards acknowledge the contributions of individuals who have demonstrated exceptional leadership and commitment to good governance practices. By celebrating individual achievements, the awards encourage others to strive for excellence in their roles.
The sectors covered by the 2026 awards included banking and finance, public sector entities, co-operatives and SACCOs, education, county public services, agriculture and water, pension management, listed entities, SMEs, and membership bodies. This broad coverage reflects the diverse landscape of governance practices across various sectors in Kenya. The awards' reach underscores the importance of good governance practices in all areas of the economy and public life.
Prof Kibwana's call for institutions to make accountability practical and part of daily operations serves as a reminder of the need for continuous improvement in governance practices. As organizations strive to achieve excellence in leadership and accountability, they contribute to a broader culture of transparency and integrity in Kenya. The recognition of outstanding governance practices through awards and other initiatives will continue to play a vital role in promoting this culture.
Key points
- Prof Kivutha Kibwana urges institutions to integrate accountability into daily operations.
- The Institute of Certified Secretaries (ICS) recognizes organizations and individuals for their governance practices.
- The 15th Champions of Governance Awards covered various sectors, including banking, public sector entities, education, and SMEs.
