President William Ruto's government is keen to deal firmly with illicit financial flows, terrorism funding and related economic crimes.
According to Interior Principal Secretary Dr Raymond Omolo, if not properly addressed these crimes could have dire effects on the economy of a country.
The PS said Kenya, like many other countries, has been documenting illicit financial flows, a global challenge directly linked to the financing of terrorism.
Dr Omollo said that the government's efforts to shut the intricate channels through which criminals are advancing these shady activities have been hampered by various operational and legal barriers, which cut across the responsible law enforcement agencies.
The Interior PS made the remarks during a meeting with experts from the British High Commission, on Tuesday.
He met experts as a follow-up to the Kenya-UK the Security Compact signed on 11th May 2023.
Among the resolution arrived at was the urgent need to undertake a joint risk assessment on terrorism financing with a view to addressing the vulnerability of various sectors.
He said the UK and Kenya government have agreed to a risk assessment exercise, focusing on money laundering and terrorism financing and their effects on various sectors of the economy.
"Through the security compact signed on 11th May 2023, the British High Commission offered to provide technical assistance in developing a national strategy to combat these economic crimes," the PS said.
When he met the Interior Cabinet Secretary in May 12, the UK security minister Tom Tugenddhat said the enduring friendship between Kenya and Britain means the two governments have to work more closely to keep the countries safe.
"We have agreed to a refreshed Security Compact, and a new Borderlands programme between Kenya, Somalia and Ethiopia to enhance peace and stability," he said .
He emphasised that working together will strengthen global security.
The agreement covers the full spectrum of security cooperation between the UK and Kenya, and represents a significant milestone in the security relationship between the two countries.
The national strategy is expected to help in tightening and accounting for the finances flowing in the country.
It will also ensure there is accountability, disclosure and monitoring of flow that will inturn enhance openness and financial security in the region.
Speaking during the signing of the security compact, Prof Kindiki noted that the collaboration between Kenya and the United Kingdom was entrenched and long-term.
" We appreciate what the UK has done to support Kenya on the basis of mutual respect and reciprocity over the years," he said
The CS said Kenya will make sure that it sustain the friendship so that the citizens of the countries can enjoy shared prosperity as they look into the future.
