Public Benefit Organizations (PBO) Act takes effect Tuesday

The Public Benefit Organizations (PBO) Act, which was enacted way back in 2013, comes into effect Tuesday, May 14, 2024.

The new law, whose implementation was frozen for 11 years, outlays a comprehensive, consolidated, predictable and transparent framework for the registration and regulation of civil society entities operating within the territory of Kenya.

The Act also expedites their registration process, reduces chances of whimsical administrative discretion in the registration of PBOs, closes all windows for arbitrariness and offers a litany of tax and other benefits for registered PBOs.

It consolidates all legislations governing civil society organisations into one predictable legal regime.

“An inclusive, participatory and open society is good for Kenya. It fortifies our democratic credentials and buttresses our values for transparent governance” said Interior Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki.

“Gratified to see the fulfilment of yet another of the Kenya Kwanza Administration’s pre-election manifesto pledges; namely, the promotion of inclusive and participatory governance, fostering accountability and welcoming alternative or even critical viewpoints” he added.