NAIROBI: The Public Benefit Organisations Regulatory Authority (PBORA) is poised to undertake the comprehensive implementation of the PBO Act 2013, marking a significant advancement in the regulatory framework for Kenya’s non-profit sector. This move is anticipated to foster a more conducive environment for Public Benefit Organisations (PBOs) to effectively contribute to the nation’s development agenda.
According to Kenya News Agency, the implementation of the Act, which supersedes the Non-Governmental Organisations Co-ordination Act of 1990, was delayed due to prolonged court proceedings. It officially came into force on May 14, 2024, as stipulated by Legal Notice No. 78 of 2024. The PBO Regulatory Authority has expressed a strong commitment to involving stakeholders in the Act’s implementation, aiming to establish a regulatory framework that aligns with global best practices while addressing the specific needs of local organisations.
To facilitate this, the Authority conducted a consultative stakeholder e
ngagement initiative in Nairobi. The event gathered key participants, including civil society organisations, government representatives, USAID, UNDP, the Kenya Community Development Foundation (KCDF), and PBO representatives from both national and county levels. The goal was to strategise on the effective implementation of the Act, promoting a regulatory environment that supports the growth and development of the sector, ultimately empowering PBOs to maximise their impact on Kenya’s social and economic development goals.
Mr. Lindon Nicholas, Acting Director of the PBO Regulatory Authority, emphasised the importance of ensuring that the regulatory framework reflects the realities faced by Kenya’s non-profit sector. He highlighted the authority’s commitment to establishing a public participation framework that will facilitate consultations across various regions in Kenya. This inclusive approach is designed to ensure that community voices are considered in shaping the regulations governing the non-profit secto
r.
In line with the principle of effective collaboration, the PBO Regulatory Authority and PBOs are dedicated to enhancing the enabling environment for joint development and programming within the sector. Mr. Nicholas also expressed his eagerness to foster an open and inclusive dialogue on the implementation of the PBO Act, planning to hold regular discussions, consultations, and consensus-building forums to ensure that all stakeholders have the opportunity to contribute their insights.
The mandate of the PBO Authority encompasses the registration and deregistration of PBOs, the review of annual reports, and overseeing the orderly performance of the non-profit sector, thereby reinforcing its commitment to a robust and effective regulatory environment.