Which government service attracts the highest bribe in Kenya?

The cost of accessing government opportunities and essential services in Kenya has reached staggering levels, with the pursuit of employment now carrying the heaviest price tag in the bribery market.

Data from the 2025 Kenya National Gender and Corruption Survey reveals that Kenyans seeking employment in government institutions pay an average bribe of Sh85,033. 

Beyond the job market, public procurement remains a lucrative corridor for illicit payments.

Securing a government contract or navigating public procurement processes requires an average bribe of Sh24,020.

Even fundamental administrative tasks, such as obtaining a passport, are heavily compromised, with citizens paying an average of Sh12,514 to expedite the process.

The survey indicates that no sector is immune, as even the justice and education systems face significant hurdles; release from jail or prison costs an average of Sh5,189, while admission to a public school institution attracts a bribe of Sh5,418.

Physical infrastructure and regulation also face high corruption rates, with building permits requiring Sh5,933 on average.

Lower on the scale, but still impactful for the average citizen, are bribes for tax declarations or exemptions at Sh4,686, public utility services at Sh3,536, and even examinations at public universities or schools, which cost Sh3,408.

The lowest average bribe among the top categories is for the import and export of goods, which stands at Sh2,405 per instance.