The Public Benefit Organisations Regulatory Authority (PBORA) is set to embark on the comprehensive implementation of the PBO Act 2013, a crucial step towards enhancing the regulatory framework for the non-profit sector in Kenya.
Implementation of the Act, which replaces the Non-Governmental Organisations Co-ordination Act, 1990 (the NGO Co-ordination Act) NGO Act 1990, was delayed following protracted Court proceedings and has come into force as of 14 May 2024 (the Commencement Date) pursuant to Legal Notice No. 78 of 2024 (the Legal Notice).
The Act aims to create a conducive environment for Public Benefit Organisations, allowing them to effectively contribute to the nation’s development Agenda.
The PBO Regulatory Authority has made a strong commitment to involving stakeholders in the implementation of the PBO Act since it took effect in May 2024. They are determined to create a regulatory framework that not only aligns with global best practices but also directly addresses the needs of local organisations.
To achieve this, the Authority has held a consultative stakeholder engagement initiative in Nairobi. The event has brought together key players, such as civil society organisations, government representatives, USAID, UNDP, the Kenya Community Development Foundation (KCDF), and PBO representatives, both from the national and county levels, to participate in coming up with strategies for the implementation of the Act.
The Authority aims to create a regulatory environment that promotes the growth and development of the sector. That empowers PBOs to maximise their impact on Kenya’s social and economic development goals. This initiative marks a significant leap towards the PBO’s vision by facilitating discussions among the stakeholders.
“We are ensuring that the regulatory framework is reflective of the realities faced by Kenya. Kenya’s non-profit sector, ultimately empowering PBOs to make meaningful difference. The workshop today’s discussions emphasise the authority’s commitment to establishing a public participation framework that will facilitate consultations across various regions in Kenya,” said Mr. Lindon Nicholas, Ag. Director, PBO Regulatory Authority.
This inclusive approach is designed to ensure that the voices of communities are heard and considered in the shaping of the regulations governing the non-profit sector.
In the principle of effective collaboration, the PBO regulatory authority and PBOs are dedicated to enhancing the enabling environment for the achievement of joint development and programming for the sector.
He added that he was keen to foster an open and inclusive dialogue on the implementation of the PBO Act. He aimed to hold regular, focused discussions.
Consultations, and consensus-building forums to ensure that all stakeholders have the opportunity to contribute their insights.
The mandate of the PBO Authority includes registration and deregistration of PBOs, receiving and reviewing annual reports, and basically overseeing the orderly performance of the non-profit sectors.
By Patience Mabonga and Joan Ogolla
