The Ministry of Interior and National Administration has directed all non-governmental organisations (NGOs) that have not yet transitioned to the new Public Benefit Organisations (PBO) regulatory framework to urgently comply with the required guidelines. In a public notice issued on May 4, 2026, the ministry urged affected organisations to review the prescribed requirements and submit the necessary information and documentation to facilitate re-registration under the new system.
The directive requires NGOs to provide accurate organisational details and supporting documents within the designated transition period. This process is essential for ensuring that organisations are properly registered and recognised under the updated regulatory framework, which aims to improve governance and oversight in the sector.
The ministry has set May 13, 2026, as the final deadline for compliance. Organisations that fail to meet the requirements within this timeframe risk losing their legal status to operate in Kenya, highlighting the urgency for stakeholders to act promptly.
The move reflects the government’s broader efforts to enhance accountability, transparency and effective regulation of NGOs. By transitioning to the PBO framework, organisations will be required to adhere to updated governance and reporting standards, ensuring smoother operations and legal recognition going forward.
