Discovering the process of how to register an NGO in Kenya can be a daunting task for many organizations looking to establish themselves in the country. With a plethora of regulations and requirements to navigate, it’s essential to understand the steps involved in registering a non-governmental organization (NGO) in Kenya.
Step 1: Determine the Type of NGO Registration Needed
Before embarking on the registration process, it’s crucial to determine the type of NGO registration required. In Kenya, there are two main types of NGO registrations: the Non-Governmental Organization (NGO) registration and the Trust registration. While both types of registrations are governed by different laws, they share similar registration requirements.
The NGO registration is governed by the Non-Governmental Organizations Co-ordination Act (Cap 19), which requires NGOs to register with the Non-Governmental Organizations Co-ordination Board (NGEC). On the other hand, the Trust registration is governed by the Trustee Act, which requires the registration of trusts with the Registrar of Trusts.
Step 2: Choose a Name for the NGO
Choosing a name for the NGO is a critical step in the registration process. The name must be unique and not similar to any existing NGO or company name in Kenya. It’s essential to conduct a name search at the Companies Registry and the Registrar of NGOs to ensure that the name is available.
The name of the NGO must also comply with the requirements of the Non-Governmental Organizations Co-ordination Act (Cap 19). The name must indicate that it is a non-governmental organization, and it must not be misleading or confusing.
Step 3: Obtain a Certificate of Incorporation
After choosing a name for the NGO, the next step is to obtain a certificate of incorporation from the Registrar of Companies. This certificate is proof that the NGO has been incorporated and is a separate legal entity from its members.
To obtain a certificate of incorporation, the NGO must submit an application to the Registrar of Companies, accompanied by the required documents, including the Memorandum and Articles of Association, the name search report, and the payment of the registration fee.
Step 4: Register with the Non-Governmental Organizations Co-ordination Board (NGEC)
After obtaining a certificate of incorporation, the next step is to register the NGO with the Non-Governmental Organizations Co-ordination Board (NGEC). The registration process involves submitting an application to the NGEC, accompanied by the required documents, including the certificate of incorporation, the Memorandum and Articles of Association, and the payment of the registration fee.
The NGEC will review the application and conduct a background check on the NGO to ensure that it meets the requirements of the Non-Governmental Organizations Co-ordination Act (Cap 19). Once the application is approved, the NGEC will issue a certificate of registration, which is proof that the NGO has been registered.
Step 5: Obtain a Tax PIN and a KRA PIN
After registering with the NGEC, the next step is to obtain a Tax PIN and a KRA PIN from the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA). The Tax PIN is a unique identifier that is used to tax the NGO, while the KRA PIN is a unique identifier that is used to file taxes.
To obtain a Tax PIN and a KRA PIN, the NGO must submit an application to the KRA, accompanied by the required documents, including the certificate of registration, the Memorandum and Articles of Association, and the payment of the registration fee.
Step 6: Register with the Kenya National Social Security Fund (NSSF)
After obtaining a Tax PIN and a KRA PIN, the next step is to register with the Kenya National Social Security Fund (NSSF). The NSSF is a government agency that is responsible for providing social security benefits to employees in Kenya.
To register with the NSSF, the NGO must submit an application, accompanied by the required documents, including the certificate of registration, the Memorandum and Articles of Association, and the payment of the registration fee.
Step 7: Obtain a Business License
After registering with the NSSF, the next step is to obtain a business license from the local authority. The business license is a permit that is required to operate a business in Kenya.
To obtain a business license, the NGO must submit an application to the local authority, accompanied by the required documents, including the certificate of registration, the Memorandum and Articles of Association, and the payment of the registration fee.
Step 8: Register with the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA)
After obtaining a business license, the next step is to register with the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA). NEMA is a government agency that is responsible for protecting the environment and promoting sustainable development in Kenya.
To register with NEMA, the NGO must submit an application, accompanied by the required documents, including the certificate of registration, the Memorandum and Articles of Association, and the payment of the registration fee.
Step 9: Register with the National Council for Population and Development (NCPD)
After registering with NEMA, the next step is to register with the National Council for Population and Development (NCPD). NCPD is a government agency that is responsible for promoting population development and reproductive health in Kenya.
To register with NCPD, the NGO must submit an application, accompanied by the required documents, including the certificate of registration, the Memorandum and Articles of Association, and the payment of the registration fee.
Registering Your Non-Profit in Kenya: Key Steps and Requirements
To set up a Non-Governmental Organization (NGO) in Kenya, you’ll need to navigate a series of steps and meet specific requirements. The following table outlines the essential information to get you started.
| Step | Description | Required Documents |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Obtain a Business Name | Register your business name with the Registrar of Companies to avoid any conflicts with existing businesses. | Completed Business Name Search Form, ID, proof of address |
| 2. Obtain a Certificate of Incorporation | Obtain a certificate of incorporation from the Registrar of Companies after filing the Memorandum and Articles of Association. | Completed Memorandum and Articles of Association, ID, proof of address |
| 3. Obtain a PIN Certificate | Obtain a PIN (Pay As You Earn) certificate from the Kenya Revenue Authority for tax purposes. | ID, proof of address, Business Registration documents |
| 4. Obtain a Tax Compliance Certificate | Register with the Kenya Revenue Authority for tax compliance and obtain a tax compliance certificate. | ID, proof of address, Business Registration documents, PIN certificate |
| 5. Obtain a Certificate of Registration from the NGO Coordination Board | Obtain a certificate of registration from the NGO Coordination Board after filing the necessary documents. | ID, proof of address, Business Registration documents, Tax Compliance Certificate |
In conclusion, registering an NGO in Kenya requires careful planning, attention to detail, and compliance with various regulations. By following these steps and providing the necessary documents, you can successfully register your non-profit organization and begin making a positive impact in Kenya.
If you’re ready to take the next step, consult with the relevant authorities and seek professional advice to ensure a smooth registration process.
Registration of Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) in Kenya: A Step-by-Step Guide
Q: What are the requirements for registering an NGO in Kenya?
The requirements for registering an NGO in Kenya include submitting an application to the Registrar of Non-Citizens, providing a constitution, and obtaining a PIN (Pay As You Earn) number. You will also need to provide the names and addresses of the organization’s members, the objects and purposes of the organization, and the names and addresses of the organization’s officers.
Q: What is the process for registering an NGO in Kenya?
The process for registering an NGO in Kenya involves submitting an application to the Registrar of Non-Citizens, who will review the application and provide feedback. If the application is approved, the NGO will be registered and issued a certificate of registration. The entire process typically takes around 1-3 months.
Q: Do NGOs in Kenya need to obtain a license to operate?
No, NGOs in Kenya do not need to obtain a license to operate. However, they may need to obtain a permit or approval from the relevant authorities, such as the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) or the Kenya National Examination Council (KNEC), depending on the type of activities they will be conducting.
Q: What are the benefits of registering an NGO in Kenya?
The benefits of registering an NGO in Kenya include access to funding and grants, tax exemptions, and the ability to apply for government contracts and tenders. Registration also provides a sense of legitimacy and credibility, which can help to build trust with donors, partners, and the community.
Q: How much does it cost to register an NGO in Kenya?
The cost of registering an NGO in Kenya is relatively low, with the application fee ranging from KES 10,000 to KES 20,000 (approximately USD 100-200). However, additional costs may apply for services such as company registration, accounting, and tax compliance.
Conclusion: Registering Your NGO in Kenya for Sustainable Growth
In this comprehensive guide, we walked you through the step-by-step process of how to register an NGO in Kenya, highlighting the requirements, benefits, and potential challenges. By following these steps, you can establish a legitimate and recognized NGO, paving the way for sustainable growth and community development. With an estimated 35,000 registered NGOs in Kenya (as of 2020, according to the NGO Co-ordination Board), it’s essential to navigate the registration process carefully to avoid any potential pitfalls.
Quick Tips for NGO Success
• Develop a solid business plan and budget to ensure financial sustainability.
• Build a strong network of supporters and partners to amplify your impact.
• Stay up-to-date with regulatory requirements and industry best practices.
• Monitor and evaluate your progress regularly to make data-driven decisions.
Clear Next Steps
To get started on registering your NGO in Kenya, follow these easy steps:
1. Gather all required documentation and information.
2. Choose a unique and memorable name for your NGO.
3. Visit the NGO Co-ordination Board website to download the registration form and submit your application.
Key Statistics to Keep in Mind
• Kenya’s NGO sector contributes approximately 3.5% to the country’s GDP (as of 2019, according to the IMF World Economic Outlook).
• The NGO sector in Kenya employs over 100,000 people (as of 2020, according to a CBK report).
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