We were shocked and saddened to receive the news of the death of Gretta Fenner in a car crash this weekend in Nairobi. As the managing director of the International Center for Asset Recovery, Gretta was a long-time and passionate partner who made the fight against corruption and recovering stolen assets central to all she did. She was in many ways the face of international asset recovery—travelling ceaselessly around the world to ensure these topics were discussed, heard and acted upon—the voice of many unable to speak up and the advocate for the victims of corruption. She was a powerful presence at the many international events, eloquent, energetic, elegant and unafraid to speak the truth and to say what needed to be said, in the many languages she mastered. Gretta was kind to everyone, and went out of her way to help people, both through her work but also those who she met in her everyday life. She was an inspiration for so many of us and a role model for those working in anti-corruption.
StAR has lost a dear and fun friend, and a professional ally. Her loss leaves a huge hole, and she will be sorely missed by all who care about holding those in power to account. Our heartfelt condolences go out to her two sons Lukas and Lorenz, to ICAR, and to so many people whose lives she touched.
StAR Team