DPP, Italian Ambassador Hold Talks to Strengthen Kenya–Italy Cooperation in Criminal Justice

The Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), Renson Ingonga, CBS, OGW, held a consultative meeting with the Italian Ambassador to Kenya, H.E. Vincenzo Del Monaco, aimed at strengthening interagency and bilateral collaboration in the criminal justice sector.

The meeting focused on enhancing cooperation between Kenya and Italy through stronger institutional linkages, exchange of perspectives on prosecutorial mandates, and exploring practical avenues for collaboration in addressing emerging and transnational crimes.

Key among the discussions was cooperation in Mutual Legal Assistance (MLA) in criminal matters, with both parties identifying opportunities to reinforce mechanisms that facilitate cross-border investigations and prosecution of crime. The engagement also emphasized the need to deepen institutional partnerships to support effective information sharing and coordinated action between the two countries.

Speaking after the meeting, DPP Ingonga underscored the importance of international cooperation in combating complex crimes.

“Criminal networks increasingly operate across borders, making international cooperation essential for effective investigations and prosecutions. Strengthening mutual legal assistance frameworks and institutional partnerships will significantly enhance our capacity to tackle transnational crimes,” said Ingonga.

He further noted that collaboration in training and knowledge exchange would help equip prosecutors with skills needed to address emerging criminal trends.

“Capacity building and joint training initiatives are vital in ensuring prosecutors are well prepared to address evolving threats such as cybercrime, terrorism financing, trafficking in persons, and corruption-related offenses,” he added.

Ambassador Del Monaco reaffirmed Italy’s commitment to strengthening cooperation with Kenya in justice sector reforms and prosecutorial collaboration.

“Italy values its strong partnership with Kenya and remains committed to supporting collaborative efforts that enhance justice systems and promote the rule of law. Cooperation in areas such as organized crime, human trafficking, and financial crimes benefits both our countries and the wider region,” said Ambassador Del Monaco.

He added that strengthening engagement between institutions would foster more effective responses to transnational criminal activities.

The discussions also explored joint efforts to support national and regional capacity-building initiatives for prosecutors in combating illicit drug trafficking, trafficking in persons, wildlife and environmental crimes, money laundering, terrorism-related offenses, cybercrime, and anti-corruption matters.

The meeting underscored the shared commitment of Kenya and Italy to strengthen prosecutorial cooperation and enhance international collaboration in tackling crimes that transcend national borders.

The engagement forms part of ongoing efforts by the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) to build strategic partnerships aimed at improving the effectiveness of criminal justice systems and promoting global cooperation in the fight against crime.