The media has been urged to amplify the voices of whistle-blowers by providing them with a platform to share their stories and ensure their revelations lead to meaningful change.

“Today, more than ever, the importance of whistle-blowers can’t be underestimated in promoting transparency, accountability and good governance. According to the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission Survey Report 2023, 57.3 per cent of Kenyans perceived corruption to be high,” said Queenter Mbori, Executive Director at the Association of Media Women in Kenya. 

Despite their vital role, whistle-blowers often face intimidation, harassment and even violence, Mbori said as she referenced the same report that says 86 per cent of the respondents feared reporting corruption cases due to potential harassment, reprisal and victimisation.

Safe environment

Mbori (pictured) made her remarks during a gathering held in Nairobi organised by AMWIK, Transparency International Kenya, and UNAID to discuss the status of whistle-blowers in the country.   The meeting highlighted several barriers to creating a safe environment for whistle-blowers, including the absence of a comprehensive Whistle-blower Protection Law, inadequate protection for whistle-blowers, threats to journalists, and misinformation.

Last year, lobbyists achieved a significant milestone with the introduction of the Whistle-blower Protection Bill of 2023.

The bill acknowledges the detrimental impact of corruption and the necessity to safeguard whistle-blowers due to their pivotal role in combating corruption.

The bill awaits adoption by the Attorney General and parliament.