The Public Benefit Organisations Regulatory Authority (PBORA) has urged Kenyans to exercise due diligence before engaging with Public Benefit Organisations (PBOs), previously referred to as Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs). The caution follows an increase in reports of rogue organisations operating fraudulently across the country.
Speaking in Nyeri County during a public participation forum on the proposed Public Benefit Regulation 2025, PBORA’s Head of Legal Services, Nicholas Lindon, emphasized the importance of verifying the registration status of PBOs with the Authority. He advised citizens and donors to contact PBORA or check its website to confirm the legitimacy of organisations before committing funds or partnerships.
“We are urging the public to perform simple checks. If a PBO has been deregistered, the information is readily available. Many scams could be avoided if people confirmed these details beforehand,” Lindon stated.
The public engagement comes in the wake of the full enactment of the Public Benefit Organisations Act, 2013, which took effect on May 14, 2024. The Act introduces reforms aimed at improving transparency and governance within the sector. Among these is the creation of a tribunal within PBORA to expedite dispute resolution and mechanisms to partner with state agencies for investigations into suspicious organisations.
However, concerns have emerged during the public participation process. Youth representatives like Victor Karanja have criticised the regulations for failing to mandate representation of marginalised groups, including youth and persons with disabilities. Others, like Elijah Wangai from Mukurwe-ini, criticised the requirement for PBOs to maintain physical premises, citing challenges for grassroots organisations operating virtually.
Additionally, the proposed appointment of the PBORA Board Chair by the President has raised fears over the Authority’s independence. Local groups have also expressed discomfort over centralised decision-making and burdensome financial reporting requirements, especially for small community-based organisations.
Public participation forums are ongoing and will conclude on July 25, giving stakeholders a final opportunity to influence the regulatory framework governing PBOs in Kenya.
