Kenya and Mozambique Deepen Cooperation in Fight Against Transnational Organized Crime
June 3, 2025 The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) today hosted Dr. Amelia Machava, the Deputy Attorney General of the Republic of Mozambique, and her delegation in a meeting aimed at strengthening bilateral ties and enhancing institutional collaboration in combating transnational organized crime and terrorism. Dr. Machava is in Kenya as part of an international cooperation mission designed to promote the exchange of best practices and foster stronger regional partnerships in the fight against complex cross-border crimes. During the meeting, the ODPP Kenya and Mozambique’s Central Office for Combating Transnational Organized Crime (GCCCOT) agreed on a roadmap to bolster institutional capacity through joint training initiatives. The two institutions also agreed to enhanced mutual legal assistance, coordinated regional enforcement efforts, and the establishment of joint task forces targeting transnational criminal networks. Speaking during the visit, Dr. Machava emphasized the importance of technical and operational exchanges, noting that Mozambique seeks to build on Kenya’s successful model of prosecution-guided investigations, particularly in economic crimes, where Kenya has seen notable conviction rates. “As we seek to strengthen GCCCOT’s capacity, learning from Kenya’s experience will be vital in refining our approaches to both investigation and prosecution,” said Dr. Machava. The DPP Renson Ingonga welcomed the delegation, showcasing successfully prosecuted cases involving economic crimes in Kenya. He reiterated the importance of embracing prosecution guided investigations, real-time information sharing and coordinated action, citing the rapidly evolving nature of transnational organized crime. “The growing sophistication of criminal networks requires an equally dynamic and united response. Information sharing and collaboration are no longer optional, they are essential to ensure effective delivery of justice,” said the DPP.
DPP meets EU Ambassador Henriette Geiger to discuss the progress of the PLEAD Justice Programme
March 26, 2025 European Union Ambassador to Kenya Her Excellency Henriette Geiger, paid a courtesy call to the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) Renson Ingonga, CBS, OGW, to review the progress of the Programme for Legal Empowerment and Aid Delivery (PLEAD II), a vital justice sector initiative that is funded by the European Union and led by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC). PLEAD II, which runs from 2023 to 2027, is the second phase of a programme designed to strengthen Kenya’s criminal justice system, improve access to justice, and enhance the prosecution of criminal cases. Building on the success of its predecessor, PLEAD I, the programme is aligned with Kenya’s ongoing judicial reforms and has the EU as its primary funder, underscoring its commitment to supporting the country’s legal and judicial transformation. The ODPP, with its constitutional mandate to prosecute criminal cases, plays a central role in implementing PLEAD II. As one of the programme’s main partners, the ODPP is tasked with strengthening prosecution services, improving the capacity of prosecutors, and ensuring the efficiency of Kenya’s criminal justice system. Ambassador Geiger reiterated the EU’s commitment to supporting the ODPP in its efforts to build a more effective and transparent justice system, particularly in tackling corruption and economic crimes. “Our partnership with the ODPP is a crucial part of the EU’s broader engagement in Kenya’s justice sector reform,” said Ambassador Geiger. The meeting provided an opportunity for the DPP to brief Ambassador Geiger on the key achievements for the office under the PLEAD programme. Mr. Ingonga highlighted several initiatives aimed at advancing the fight against corruption, including the development of technical guidelines for corruption-related offenses, the proposed creation of standardized charge sheets, and conducting public awareness campaigns designed to enhance community involvement in the fight against corruption. In justice sector coordination, the ODPP is working closely with key institutions such as the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) and the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) to streamline investigations and prosecutions related to corruption. Additionally, new prosecution guidelines for traffic offenses and legislative reforms are being pursued to enhance the efficiency of the justice sector. Mr. Ingonga also noted PLEAD’s contribution to the ODPP’s ongoing efforts to build capacity and improve infrastructure. This includes staff training on legal policies, the launch of the ODPP Strategic Plan (2024-2025), and the installation of solar panels in ODPP offices to promote energy sustainability. In addition to reviewing the progress of the programme, the courtesy call provided an opportunity to explore further collaboration between the EU and the ODPP. Potential areas of future partnership include continued training for prosecutors, particularly on handling digital evidence, corruption cases, and human rights-based approaches. There are also plans to support the establishment of ODPP grassroots offices in remote areas, expand the Prosecution Training Institute, enhance the juvenile justice system, and promote green prosecution initiatives. The DPP expressed his appreciation for the EU’s continued support in strengthening Kenya’s legal institutions and advancing justice sector reforms. “As Kenya continues to push forward with its justice sector reforms, the partnership between the EU and the ODPP remains a cornerstone of the country’s efforts to create a more just, equitable, and efficient legal system,” Mr. Ingonga concluded.
ODPP Hosts South Sudan Anti-Corruption Commission Delegation for Benchmarking Exercise
March 19, 2025 The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) today hosted a delegation from the South Sudan Anti-Corruption Commission (SS-ACC), led by Hon. Samuel Jock Bany Mading, the Deputy Board Chairperson of SS-ACC. The delegation is currently in the country for a benchmarking exercise aimed at gaining insights into the investigation and prosecution of corruption and economic crimes cases. The discussion emphasized the need for a coordinated and concerted approach to tackling corruption, given that such crimes are often transnational in nature. They acknowledged the importance of joint efforts between Kenya and South Sudan to effectively address the menace of corruption in both nations. The delegation was also introduced to the Uadilifu case management system, a cutting-edge digital solution developed by the ODPP. The system has revolutionized the management of case files, enabling the ODPP to process cases more efficiently and significantly reducing turnaround times. Additionally, the delegation was briefed on the Mutual Legal Assistance Act, which plays a critical role in facilitating the extradition of fugitives to face charges in the countries where they committed their crimes. The Act also supports the facilitation of witnesses to testify, regardless of their location, further strengthening the fight against corruption and economic crimes.
𝐎𝐃𝐏𝐏 𝐇𝐨𝐬𝐭𝐬 𝐃𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐠𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐟𝐫𝐨𝐦 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐭𝐞 𝐃𝐞𝐩𝐚𝐫𝐭𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐌𝐢𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐭𝐨 𝐒𝐭𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐠𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐧 𝐅𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭 𝐀𝐠𝐚𝐢𝐧𝐬𝐭 𝐈𝐥𝐥𝐞𝐠𝐚𝐥 𝐌𝐢𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐢𝐧 𝐊𝐞𝐧𝐲𝐚
March 18, 2025 The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) today hosted a delegation from the State Department for Mining, led by Principal Secretary Elijah Mwangi, for a discussion focused on strengthening collaboration in the fight against illegal mining activities across key counties, including Taita Taveta (Voi), Kakamega, Siaya, Kwale, Kitui, Vihiga, and Bungoma. PS Maina emphasized the rising concerns over illegal mining in Kenya and called for more robust interventions to address the issue. He urged the public to ensure they acquire the necessary licenses before engaging in any mining operations. DPP Renson Ingonga advocated for the organization of community sensitization forums. He stressed that such initiatives would be crucial in educating the public about the laws governing the sector, while also providing them with the opportunity to better understand the legal and regulatory processes. The DPP assured the PS that his office remains committed to tackling illegal mining with the utmost seriousness, emphasizing that all such cases will be thoroughly pursued to their conclusion. The DPP also recommended the use of prosecution-guided investigations, highlighting that this approach would lead to the collection of strong, reliable evidence necessary for successful prosecution. In terms of capacity building, both the DPP and PS agreed to facilitate joint training sessions for investigators from the Ministry of Mining and prosecutors. These sessions aim to enhance their understanding of various minerals and the procedures involved in managing mining-related cases. Additionally, the two officials agreed to establish liaison offices between their institutions to streamline information exchange and improve the efficiency of responding to mining incidents.
DPP Reaffirms Commitment to Tackling Illegal Petroleum Activities in Kenya
March 15, 2025 The Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) has reaffirmed his office’s commitment to combating the illegal production and use of petroleum products in Kenya. Speaking during the national stakeholder conference on safety in Kenya’s electricity, liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), and petroleum sectors, the DPP Renson Ingonga, emphasized the role of investigation agencies and the prosecution in tackling criminal elements in the sector. He commended the “Kaa Safe Mtaani” campaign, organized by the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA), noting that it is key in promoting safety within the community. Ingonga further warned that with petroleum products consumption in Kenya on the rise, the increased demand may lead to some individuals engaging in illegal practices that undermine both public safety and government efforts to regulate the sector. “The growing demand for petroleum products presents significant challenges, and unfortunately, some individuals are exploiting this situation through illegal activities. These activities not only jeopardize the safety of consumers but also destabilize the efforts made by the government to maintain a secure and sustainable energy sector,” Ingonga stated. The DPP reassured stakeholders that his office will continue to work in partnership with relevant authorities to ensure those involved in illegal activities are held accountable. He highlighted the success of the Prosecution’s Guided Investigations model, a collaborative approach between ODPP and investigative agencies. This model, he said, has led to the gathering of strong evidence-based cases. “The Prosecution’s Guided Investigations model has proven successful in ensuring thorough investigations and effective prosecutions. This approach not only strengthens the case-building process but also provides the necessary legal framework to deter offenders,” he added. The DPP also expressed his appreciation for the ongoing synergy between his office and EPRA, acknowledging that such partnerships are critical for maintaining the integrity of the energy, electricity, and petroleum sectors in Kenya. He reiterated that continued cooperation between stakeholders would play a pivotal role in addressing systemic challenges within the sector and ensuring public safety.
𝐎𝐃𝐏𝐏 𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐝𝐮𝐜𝐭𝐬 𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐮𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐃𝐢𝐚𝐥𝐨𝐠𝐮𝐞 𝐢𝐧 𝐍𝐲𝐞𝐫𝐢 𝐭𝐨 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐦𝐨𝐭𝐞 𝐏𝐞𝐨𝐩𝐥𝐞-𝐂𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐞𝐝 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐬𝐞𝐜𝐮𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐒𝐞𝐫𝐯𝐢𝐜𝐞𝐬
March 15, 2025 In a bid to advance its agenda for a more people-centered prosecution service, the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) held a community dialogue session in Nyeri, Central Kenya. The initiative, dubbed 𝑪𝙝𝒂𝙥𝒂 𝑮𝙪𝒎𝙯𝒐 𝒏𝙖 𝙋𝒓𝙤𝒔𝙚𝒄𝙪𝒕𝙤𝒓, was supported by the International Justice Mission (IJM) and aimed at fostering greater public understanding and trust in the prosecution process. The dialogue brought together residents, law enforcement agencies, legal professionals, religious groups, business groups and members of civil society. It provided a platform for the public to interact directly with prosecutors, ask questions, and discuss issues affecting their communities. The focus was on educating the public about the role of the ODPP, their legal rights, and how individuals can effectively engage with the criminal justice system. Key topics addressed during the dialogue included the prosecution of sexual and gender-based violence, corruption, and human rights violations among others. The DPP highlighted his commitment to upholding justice and ensuring that all cases, regardless of the circumstances, are handled with fairness and transparency. Speaking at the event, the DPP Renson Ingonga emphasized that the initiative was part of a broader effort to decentralize prosecution services and make them more accessible to all. He also noted that public cooperation in the legal process is key to the delivery of justice. The DPP further reaffirmed his commitment to promoting a people-centered prosecution service. He stated that his office is open for conversations with the public and encouraged them to pursue principles of alternative prosecution, including diversion and plea bargaining. “By engaging with communities directly, we aim to demystify the prosecution process and ensure that it works for the people it serves,” the DPP said. He gave an assurance that his office is open to feedback from the community and pledged to pursue the recommendations through the National Council on the Administration of Justice (NCAJ) to inform reforms in the criminal justice sector. The support from the International Justice Mission, a global organization focused on ending violence and protecting human rights, was instrumental in facilitating the dialogue. IJM’s partnership with the ODPP underscores a shared commitment to improving the criminal justice system in Kenya and ensuring that vulnerable groups, particularly women and children, are protected from violence and exploitation. Residents of Nyeri expressed their appreciation for the opportunity to engage with the prosecutors. Many noted that the session provided clarity on the legal system and allowed them to voice their concerns. “This has been an eye-opening experience. It is rare to have such direct interaction with the people who handle our cases. We now understand more about how the system works.” One community member remarked.
ODPP scoop four prestigious awards during Annual National Diversity and Inclusion Awards and Recognition (DIAR) Gala Dinner and Award Ceremony
March 6, 2025 The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) has scooped four prestigious awards during the 7th edition of the Annual National Diversity and Inclusion Awards and Recognition (DIAR) Gala Dinner and Award Ceremony 2025 at Sarit Expo Centre, Westlands, in Nairobi. Hongera sana. The ODPP won the Best Statutory Commission and Authority on Ethnic Representation category, first runners-up in the Best Statutory Commission and Authority on Equitable Allocation of Opportunities and Resources category, second runners-up in the Best Statutory Commission and Authority on PWD Representation category, and a finalist in the Best Statutory Commission and Authority on Good Governance, Transparency, and Accountability category. The awards, which included a trophy, and 3 framed certificates of recognition were received by the Ag. Secretary Public Prosecutions Mr. Alloys Kemo, OGW, on behalf of the Director of Public Prosecutions Renson Ingonga CBS, OGW. Delivering the speech on behalf of the DPP, Mr. Kemo reaffirmed the office’s commitment to ensuring inclusivity and non-discrimination, particularly in the recruitment of staff. He defined ODPP as an equal employer that is guided by the rule of law in all its processes. The DIAR Awards ceremony honoured and recognized State Corporations, County Governments, NGOs, Corporate Companies and individuals making significant contributions as investors in people, planet guardians, and champions of prosperity for posterity. The awards are based on internal and external research as well as reviews of the latest publicly available reports, including the Status of Compliance of the Public Service with Values and Principles in Article 10 and 232 of the Constitution by the Public Service Commission. The awards comes just a year after the DPP was elected president of the Africa Prosecutors Association (APA) in Morocco, and two months after receiving the Chief of the Order of the Burning Spear (CBS) award from President William Ruto at State House, Nairobi, and a week after he came second in the CEO of the Year category at the Digital Transformation Public Sector Awards 2025 in Mombasa
ODPP and United States Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) strengthen bilateral cooperation in the fight against transnational organized crime
March 4, 2025 The Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), Renson Ingonga, CBS, OGW, held a key meeting with Mr. Karl Ash, the Country Attaché of the United States Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), to explore ways to strengthen bilateral cooperation between the two institutions in dismantling transnational organized crime in Kenya. The discussion underscored the long-standing partnership between the ODPP and USDEA, which has yielded significant results. The collaborative efforts have included capacity building and training for ODPP staff, Mutual Legal Assistance (MLA), and technical assistance to enhance prosecutorial capacities. The DPP expressed his gratitude for USDEA’s unwavering support and significant contributions to capacity building within the ODPP, emphasizing how this support has been critical in enhancing the office’s ability to effectively carry out its mandate. The DPP emphasized the importance of collaboration in the fight against transnational organized crime, particularly narcotics-related criminal networks. Mr. Karl Ash reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to continued cooperation with the ODPP, emphasizing their shared mission to advance justice in Kenya. He stated that the war on drugs cannot be won by a single country and hence the need for cooperation and collaboration. Some of the key areas on which the two institutions were keen to collaborate on include joint capacity building and training, prosecution-led investigations into drug cartels and related criminal activities, intelligence sharing, and technical expertise, among others. The DEA operates under the U.S. Department of Justice and is responsible for enforcing drug laws and dismantling narcotics-related criminal networks. In Kenya, the DEA collaborates with law enforcement agencies to combat illicit drug trafficking, money laundering, and other transnational crimes.
DPP bags award at Digital Transformation Forum
March 28, 2025 Director of Public Prosecutions Renson Ingonga CBS, OGW has been feted at the Digital Transformation Public Sector Awards 2025 in Mombasa. The DPP came second in the CEO of the Year category, with his recognition associated with the successful roll out of the Uadilifu Case Management System at the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP). William Kabogo, the Cabinet Secretary in the Ministry of Information, Communication and the Digital Economy handed the DPP the award, consisting a plaque and certificate of recognition. “We are excited by the digital transformation and I assure you the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions will be at the forefront of embracing the digital era,” said the DPP. The DPP came second from a category of six nominees following a rigorous selection process by a team of judges in the award panel from the public and private sector. The award comes barely a year after the DPP was elected president of the Africa Prosecutors Association (APA) in Morocco, and two months after he was bestowed with the Chief of the Order of the Burning Spear (CBS) award by President William Ruto at State House, Nairobi. Speaking at the event, Mr. Kabogo vowed to lead the digital transformation in government by introducing paperless correspondences. The forum which aims to advance digital solutions within government operations, attracted experts and leaders dedicated to driving innovation and efficiency. The Uadilifu Case Management System is a digital solution that has revolutionized the way the ODPP handles case files, allowing prosecutors to process files more efficiently, drastically reducing turnaround times. The DPP has consistently emphasized on how the system has improved the working relationship between the ODPP and the Judiciary, particularly with the filing of charge sheets and promised to ensure its successful rollout at the national level. Present at the event were, Eng. John Tonui, PS for ICT and Digital Economy; John Mutahi, PS for Economic Planning; Dr. Salome Wanjiru, PS for Correctional Services; and Evelyn Cheluget, Director General of Immigration and Citizen Services.
DPP join key stakeholders in public and private sectors at the Digital Transformation Public Sector Forum in Mombasa
March 28, 2025 The Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) on 27th February 2025 joined key stakeholders from both the public and private sectors at the Digital Transformation Public Sector Forum and Awards (DTPS) 2025 in Mombasa. The forum, which focuses on advancing digital solutions within government operations, attracted experts and leaders dedicated to driving innovation and efficiency. Under the theme Driving Efficiency through Cross-Government Digital Collaboration, the DPP took the opportunity to share the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions’ (ODPP) journey in digital transformation, dating back to pre-COVID-19 period. In his remarks, the DPP highlighted the significant progress made with the Uadilifu Case Management System, a digital solution that has revolutionized the way the ODPP handles case files. Unlike the previous manual system, which he described as outdated, tedious, and difficult, the Uadilifu system has enabled the ODPP to process files more efficiently, drastically reducing turnaround times. The DPP also emphasized how the system has improved the working relationship between the ODPP and the Judiciary, particularly with the filing of charge sheets. “The Uadilifu system has proven to be an essential tool, allowing us to enhance our efficiency and collaboration with other key agencies, in the criminal justice sector” said the DPP. The DPP urged other security agencies and government bodies to embrace digital platforms, asserting that such tools are crucial for ensuring seamless operations across various sectors. He also called for continued collaboration with stakeholders to ensure the successful national rollout of the Uadilifu system, which he believes will further streamline processes in the justice sector. Present at the event were, Eng. John Tonui, PS for ICT and Digital Economy; John Mutahi, PS for Economic Planning; Dr. Salome Wanjiru, PS for Correctional Services; and Evelyn Cheluget, Director General of Immigration and Citizen Services.