Kenya’s Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), Renson Ingonga, has called on Commonwealth nations to deepen collaboration in the fight against terrorism, money laundering, and transnational organised crime.
Speaking at the opening of the 23rd Heads of Prosecuting Agencies Conference (HOPAC) in Mombasa, Mr. Ingonga stressed the importance of working together through existing frameworks such as the Countering Violent Extremism (CVE) Unit, the Commonwealth Cyber Declaration Programme, and the Commonwealth Security Group (CSG).
“These initiatives are critical opportunities to strengthen our effectiveness in addressing threats to national and international security,” he told delegates.
Highlighting a more holistic approach, the DPP advocated for support of interventions beyond prosecution, including reconstruction, disengagement, reintegration, and reconciliation. According to Mr. Ingonga, these are key to addressing the root causes of extremism and building long-term peace and stability.
He urged participants to use the HOPAC forum to exchange ideas, foster honest dialogue, and develop strategic frameworks for international cooperation. “Let us seize this opportunity to build bridges, break down barriers and forge an unbreakable chain of collaboration,” he said.
The three-day conference has drawn high-profile attendees, including Kenya’s Attorney General Dorcas Oduor, Director of Criminal Investigations Mohammed Amin, and 19 Heads of Prosecuting Authorities from across the Commonwealth. Delegates from the United Kingdom, Australia, Wales, Zambia, Uganda, and Mozambique are in attendance, alongside legal experts and representatives from the International Association of Prosecutors.
The conference aims to strengthen global efforts in justice and security by promoting shared solutions to shared threats.
Written By Rodney Mbua
