The Public Benefit Organisations Regulatory Authority (PBORA) has announced the impending deregistration of 2,802 NGOs, including prominent entities like the Inua Jamii programme, the Sonko Rescue Team, and the Sakaja Foundation.
The decision follows claims of non-compliance with licensing terms, detailed in a Gazette notice issued by PBORA CEO Lindon Nicolas. This marks a significant enforcement step under the Public Benefit Organisations Act 2013 (PBO Act), which President William Ruto operationalized in May after years of dormancy.
Key Organisations Facing Deregistration
Inua Jamii Programme
A government initiative since 2004, Inua Jamii provides cash transfers to reduce poverty among vulnerable groups, including orphans, the elderly, and persons with severe disabilities. Supporting 1.75 million people annually, it faces deregistration due to eight years of non-compliance.
Sonko Rescue Team
Founded by former Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko, the private initiative provides emergency services, clean water distribution, and social support in Nairobi. It has reportedly defaulted for six years, jeopardizing its operations.
Sakaja Foundation
The foundation of Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja, which focuses on social welfare initiatives, is under scrutiny for defaulting for one year.
Mo Farah Foundation
Olympic champion Mo Farah's charity, which improves water, education, and healthcare access in Somalia and Ethiopia, is also on the list due to a decade of non-compliance.
Kenya Heart and Lung Centre (KHLC)
KHLC, addressing Kenya's growing burden of non-communicable diseases, including heart and lung conditions, is another high-profile organisation affected.
Other Notable NGOs
The list also includes:
- Elimu Centre, Apollo Foundation, and Lenana Foundation Trust
- National Organisation of Women Teachers
- Mt Kenya Wildlife Conservancy and Wildlife Foundation Kenya
- Early Cancer Care and Detection Centre and Saint Martins Hope Foundation
Implications of the PBO Act Enforcement
The crackdown comes six months after the PBO Act's activation. The law simplifies NGO registration and grants tax exemptions but enforces stricter compliance. PBORA now has enhanced powers to register, deregister, and oversee NGOs, ensuring adherence to their obligations and alignment with national development goals.
This regulatory move underscores a renewed focus on accountability and governance in the nonprofit sector, affecting organisations of all scales across Kenya.