NGO Registrations in Kenya,

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NGO Name search in Kenya.

The application for NGO Name reservation allows both Local or International organizations to apply for approval to register the intended NGO name.

Steps for NGO name reservation

1. Fill in the Online application form on eCitizen
2. Upload all required documents
3. Pay for your application
4. Approval updates will be posted in your Online profile as well as sent via SMS.

Requirements for NGO registration in Kenya.

The following are reuired for NGO regiatation in Kenya.

1. Proposed names for the NGO. Three names in order of preference. Name search is conducted by Form2 upon payment of Kes.1000/=.
2. Contact Information of the proposed organization. IE
   • Proposed physical registered address.
   • Postal address
   • Telephone number
   • Email address
3. Details of the top three officials of the NGO.
   • Chairman.
   • Secretary
   • Treasurer
   • At least one Board Member
4. The charitable objectives of the organization.
5. A list of board members.
6. Duly filled Form 1 stating the organizations contact person
7. Two colored passport size photographs on a white background of the proposed three officials and two other board members with their names and organization written at the back
8. Copies of
   • National ID or passports of the officials.
   • KRA Pins of the officials
   • Tax compliance certificates of the officials
   • Police clearance certificates of the officials ( Good conduct certificate) Including finger printing receipts.
   • Notarized Police clearance certificate for Foreign officials.
9. At least One third of all the board members MUST be Kenyan for all foreign based organizations.
10. A Copy of a valid police clearance. Certificate of Good Conduct including the finger prints and receipts for Kenyans and equivalent notarized Police clearance certificate for Foreigners from their Country of Origin. This certificates (MUST not be more than six months.
11. A draft constitution of the proposed NGO, which must be signed by three officials and the two board members.
12. Minutes on the NGO authorizing the filing of the application with a specific resolutions.
13. The application MUST be accompanied with a proposed one year budget of the NGO.
14. The application MUST be accompanied with a forwarding cover letter.
15. The application MUST contain original signatures of the three officials and board members of the NGO as applicable
16. The application should either be typed or filled in block letters.

Official forms & downloads:

• Form 2 — Application for Name Reservation (PDF).
• NGO Guidance Booklet (official) — Post-Registration Guidance (PDF)

Procedure of Registering of an NGO in Kenya.

1. Name search. proposed names of the NGO in a prescribed form 2 for approval to the Non-Governmental Organizations Board.
2. The registry will conduct search and recommend the reservation.
3. Submission of Application alongside
   • Form 1
   • Form 3
   • The constitution of the NGO
   • The Budget of the NGO
   • The cover Letter
4. Notification of Registered address of the NGO and the postal address of the proposed organization .

What is the cost of NGO registration in Kenya?

The Prescribed fees for the registration of an NGO in Kenya are as follows,

1. Local NGO - Kes 16,000.
2. International NGO - Kes 30,000
3. Consultation fees on request.

How long does it take to register an NGO in Kenya?

To register an NGO in Kenya generally takes an average of three months to complete the entire registration process.
The NGO Board will send you an acknowledgment letter, upon receipt of your application. A registration certificate will be issued once your application meets the set requirements.

NGO vs PBO in Kenya (important distinction)

In Kenya, NGOs are regulated by the NGO Coordination Board, while Public Benefit Organizations (PBOs) fall under the PBO Authority. The registration process, reporting obligations and applicable laws differ. Choosing the wrong structure can delay donor onboarding and bank approvals.

Local NGO vs International NGO in Kenya

The NGO Coordination Board applies different requirements depending on whether an NGO is registered as a Local NGO or an International NGO. The table below highlights the key differences.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Are police clearances required for foreigners?

Yes. Foreign nationals are typically required to submit a notarized police clearance certificate from their country of origin. The clearance should be recent, usually issued within the last six months, and may need an official translation if not in English.

Can an NGO be registered online in Kenya?

Yes. Part of the NGO registration process can be initiated online via the Government of Kenya’s eCitizen portal (e.g., name reservation and initial filing). However, original signed documents and physical submissions may still be required by the NGO Coordination Board.

Why should I register my NGO in Kenya?

Registering an NGO provides legal recognition and legitimacy, enabling the organisation to open bank accounts, access donor funding and grants, enter into contracts, apply for work permits for staff, and operate lawfully under Kenyan regulations.

What are the ongoing compliance requirements for registered NGOs?

Registered NGOs must submit annual activity reports, file audited financial statements, and notify the NGO Coordination Board of any changes to officials, governance, or address. Non-compliance can lead to penalties or deregistration.

What documents do I need to register an NGO in Kenya?

Typical requirements include an approved name reservation, an NGO constitution, a list of officials and their details, the organisation’s physical/postal address, minutes authorising registration, and other supporting documents as required by the NGO Coordination Board. Requirements differ for local vs international NGOs.

Related Articles

• NGO Work Permit in Kenya – Requirements, Process & Timelines
• How to Open an NGO Bank Account in Kenya

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