Kenya has received international recognition for its efforts in combating money laundering, terrorist financing, and the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction. The Financial Action Task Force (FATF) has acknowledged the country’s dedication to strengthening global compliance standards, marking a major milestone in its financial security strategy.
In a significant development, Kenya has been invited to participate in FATF’s February meeting in Paris, France. This marks the country’s inaugural engagement in the forum as a non-member, providing an opportunity to influence international financial security discussions while reinforcing its commitment to tackling financial crimes.
“The invitation comes at a pivotal moment in Kenya’s ongoing efforts to exit the FATF grey list under the first review,” the Ministry of Foreign and Diaspora Affairs stated. “It also reaffirms the nation’s standing as a key economic and financial hub in Sub-Saharan Africa, playing a crucial role in facilitating trade, investment, and cross-border financial stability.”
The ministry further emphasized that Kenya’s proactive leadership in addressing financial crimes not only safeguards the country’s economic interests but also enhances the resilience of regional financial systems.
Leading the Kenyan delegation at the Paris meeting is Mr. Saitoti ole Maika, MBS, Director General of the Financial Reporting Centre, alongside Mr. Renson Ingonga, OGW, the Director of Public Prosecutions, and senior officials from the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) and the National Counter Terrorism Centre (NCTC). Their participation is expected to highlight Kenya’s strategic contributions to global financial security.
The recognition by FATF signals a crucial step in Kenya’s financial reforms and underscores the nation’s growing influence in international financial governance.