Corporate responsibility, ethics and accountability

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to ascertain the magnitude to which real corporate responsibility (CR), ethics and accountability practices exist in Kenyan corporations.

Design/methodology/approach

The insights of qualitative and quantitative approaches are investigated through descriptive and exploratory study carried out on 193 Kenyan companies in the corporate sector and 5 focus groups discussions comprising 9 members each.

Findings

The paper divulged that current practices on CR, ethics and accountability are relatively low, as only senior managers underwent training on ethics; accountability was broadly perceived as resources accounting instead of actual accountability; and responsibility is highly skewed toward senior management at the expense of stakeholders and society in which they thrive.

Research limitations/implications

The concept of sustainability has not been emphasized as a dimension of CR, ethics and accountability. Fresh opportunities of inquiry are extended considering this aspect.

Practical implications

This study affirms practices that have a positive effect on corporate stakeholders, communities and environment.

Social implications

This study strives to develop approaches of managing and controlling, ensuring that the welfare of stakeholders and society as a whole is uplifted and sustained.

Originality/value

The conception of CR, ethics and accountability practices signifies a theoretical innovation.

Citation

Odongo, N.H. and Wang, D. (2018), "Corporate responsibility, ethics and accountability", Social Responsibility Journal, Vol. 14 No. 1, pp. 111-122. https://doi.org/10.1108/SRJ-10-2016-0175