The expense of obtaining government opportunities and necessary services in Kenya has reached alarming heights, with securing employment now representing the most costly aspect in the bribery landscape.
According to the 2025 Kenya National Gender and Corruption Survey, Kenyans pursuing positions in government departments pay an average of Sh85,033 in bribes.
Outside employment, public procurement continues to serve as a profitable channel for unofficial payments. Obtaining a government contract or maneuvering through procurement procedures demands an average bribe of Sh24,020.
Basic administrative functions, like passport acquisition, are significantly compromised, with citizens paying approximately Sh12,514 to accelerate the process.
The research shows that no sector remains unaffected, as both justice and education systems encounter substantial obstacles; securing release from detention averages Sh5,189, while gaining admission to a public educational institution requires Sh5,418 in bribes.
Physical infrastructure and regulation also experience high corruption levels, with building permits costing an average of Sh5,933.
Further down the hierarchy, yet still affecting ordinary citizens, are bribes for tax declarations or exemptions at Sh4,686, public utility services at Sh3,536, and examinations in public educational institutions costing Sh3,408.
The minimal average bribe among principal categories involves import and export transactions, standing at Sh2,405 for each instance.