Overview
- Act: Section 53 of the Proceeds of Crime and Anti-Money Laundering Act No.9 of 2009
- Formed: 2010
- CEO: Brigadier Alice Mate
The Assets Recovery Agency (ARA), established under the Proceeds of Crime and Anti-Money Laundering Act No.9 of 2009, is a Kenyan body corporate mandated to combat money laundering, terrorist financing, and proliferation financing. Its primary functions include identifying, tracing, freezing, seizing, and confiscating proceeds of crime. The agency also administers the Criminal Assets Recovery Fund and provides international assistance in investigations and proceedings. By executing these responsibilities, ARA aims to disrupt criminal enterprises and deter illicit financial activities within Kenya.
CEO: Brigadier Alice Mate
Brigadier (Rtd) Alice Muringo Mate, Director of Kenya’s Assets Recovery Agency since April 2021, had a distinguished career in the Kenya Defence Forces. She served as Chief of Legal Services at Defence Headquarters, providing legal counsel on military operations and administration, and was promoted to Brigadier for exemplary service.
Functions
- Asset Recovery: Identifies, traces, freezes, seizes, and confiscates assets that are proceeds of crime.
- Money Laundering Prevention: Works to prevent money laundering and terrorist financing through asset recovery.
- Criminal Asset Forfeiture: Initiates civil and criminal forfeiture proceedings against illegally acquired assets.
- Criminal Assets Recovery Fund: Manages and administers the Criminal Assets Recovery Fund.
- International Cooperation: Provides assistance in asset recovery matters with international law enforcement agencies.
- Investigation Support: Assists investigative agencies by tracing illicit funds and assets.
- Capacity Building: Enhances the capacity of stakeholders to fight money laundering and related crimes.
- Public Awareness: Educates the public on the dangers of illicit financial activities and their consequences.
- Monitoring and Reporting: Monitors and reports on trends in illicit financial flows and related crimes.
- Legal Advisory: Provides legal advice on asset recovery processes and anti-money laundering laws.
Important Links
Address & Contacts
- P.O Box 52420-00100, Nairobi, Kenya
- 22nd Floor, UAP Old Mutual Towers, Upper Hill, Nairobi, Kenya
- info@assetsrecovery.go.ke
- +254 (0) 202 021 009| +254 (0) 202 100 331| +254 (0) 768 024 337