NGO Registration Requirements in Kenya

It is a bit hectic to actualize your dream of starting an NGO without basic knowledge on how to go about it. Worry not, this article is here to sort that out.

The process of NGO registration usually begins with a name search; here the Applicant makes a request to the NGO Board proposing three (3) names by which the organization could be named. A name search is then conducted at a fee to be stipulated by the board. A name is then reserved. Once this has been done, the Applicant files a formal application for registration.

These are the requirements for registration:

• Contact details of the proposed organization.
• Details of the 3 top officials.
• The charitable objectives of the organization.
• A list of other board members.
• Information stating the organization’s contact person.
• Two colored passport size photographs, on a white background, of the proposed 3 top officials and two other board members.
• Copies of IDs/Passports and KRA PIN Certificates for the proposed officials and Board members. Please note that at least One third (1/3) of all the board members should be Kenyan for all foreign based NGOs.
• A copy of a valid police clearance (certificate of Good Conduct including the finger prints and receipts) for Kenyans, and equivalent notarized clearance certificates for foreigners from their countries of origin. Please note that they should not be more than six (6) months Old.
• A draft constitution of the proposed NGO, which must be signed by the proposed three (3) top officials and the two (2) board members. Two (2) copies should be signed by all the proposed board members on the execution page, and by at least one of the proposed officials on each page.
• Minutes authorizing the filing of the application with a specific agenda and resolution.
• Proposed one year budget.
• A forwarding letter.

The processing fees varies depending on the nature of the NGO; that is whether national or international. Subsequently, if the Applicant organization has a previous registration certificate, the Applicant is required to produce a notarized copy of the relevant registration certificate. In addition, this should be accompanied by a letter of the Organization from the board of that Organization. And finally, for Organizations with previous registrations under any other written Law in Kenya, a certificate of dissolution from the registering authority should be tendered and/or filled with the NGO board for the application to be accepted.

By Andrew Wanga