The Champions of Governance (COG) Awards are an initiative of the Institute of Certified Secretaries (ICS), a professional membership association established by an Act of Parliament, Cap 534 of the Laws of Kenya. The Institute has consistently been at the forefront of promoting the practice of good governance in both public and private institutions.
In 2010, ICS inaugurated the Champions of Governance Awards to recognize organizations and individuals that demonstrate the highest standards in the practice and application of good governance, in line with the Institute’s vision and mission. Since inception, the Awards have provided a structured platform for recognizing excellence in governance and encouraging continuous improvement across sectors.
Purpose of the Awards
The Champions of Governance Awards seek to promote good governance by recognizing effective governance practices in both public and private sector entities. The Awards highlight innovation that supports good governance, encourages organizations to strengthen governance frameworks, and promote research related to governance practices, accountability, and performance.
Award Categories and Recognition
The Awards cover a wide range of sectors, including agriculture and water, finance and banking, insurance, statutory bodies, small and medium enterprises, co-operatives, retirement benefits schemes, NGOs, humanitarian and faith-based organizations, education institutions, commissions and independent offices, institutional investors, county public service boards, and the tea sector. In each category, awards are conferred to the best performing organization, as well as first and second runners-up.
Additional recognitions include Chairman of the Year, COG CEO of the Year, Corporate Secretary of the Year, Most Improved Organization, sector-specific Champion of Governance Awards, and the overall Champion of Governance Award.
Assessment Parameters and Process
Participating organizations are evaluated against defined governance parameters, including board effectiveness, ethical leadership and corporate citizenship, accountability and risk management, transparency and disclosure, shareholder rights and obligations, stakeholder relations, compliance with laws and regulations, and sustainability and performance management. Parameters are applied appropriately depending on sector and organizational context.
The process involves registration, completion of a self-assessment with supporting documentation, independent evaluation by appointed governance audit consultants, data analysis, and final determination by an independent jury.
Advancing Governance Excellence
Through the Champions of Governance Awards, ICS continues to promote accountability, ethical leadership, and excellence in governance, reinforcing the role of sound governance as a foundation for sustainable organizational performance.