The Relevance of the Indigenous African Moral Theory in the control of Public Sector Corruption in Kenya

Abstract

This paper explores the contribution of African moral theory in the control of public sector corruption in Kenya. This study is based on a literature review method. The principle method used is the documentary analysis that show how African moral theory can be applicable to the development of a national ideology of the common good to curb persistent corruption in Kenya. This study could provide the Government of Kenya with important information relating to how public sector corruption can be controlled through ethical formation that is indigenous to Kenyans. Through documentary analysis, the study found out that African ethics resonates with the indigenous worldview of Africans and can effectively be employed as an anti-corruption initiative in Kenya. This is because, the central premise of African moral theory is harmony and positive relationships. However, corruption distorts harmony and leads to negative relationships in the country. The study recommends an induction program for government employees. This induction program is a value-reorientation program delivered through seminars/workshops with a particular focus on honesty, justice, transparency, fairness, and personal integrity. The study also recommends the use of reward system as well as deterrents.