State to operationalise PBO Act soon, Interior ministry says

The government will fully operationalize the Public Benefit Organizations (PBO) Act within a reasonably short time.

Internal Security Principal Secretary Dr Raymond Omollo yesterday said the Government recognizes that PBOs play a great role in complementing the nation’s development efforts.

Speaking at the closing ceremony of a three-day PBO Act Implementation  Consultative Forum in Elementaita, the PS stated that the law promotes partnership and collaboration with Government and the private sector in  pursuit of the country’s national development agenda.

“We all appreciate the Government’s economic transformation agenda must succeed and this can happen with the support of various stakeholders, including the PBOs,” the PS said.

The Act came into effect on May 14 when it was gazetted by the Cabinet Secretary of Interior Prof. Kithure Kindiki breathing life to PBOs to better deliver on the charitable objectives for which they are registered.

The Act promises a brighter future for our nation by providing an environment that promotes a more organized, transparent, and impactful PBO sector.

The enactment of the Act represents a significant milestone in the regulatory landscape governing not-for-profit organisations in Kenya.

Despite delays in its commencement, the effective implementation of the Act will be crucial in fostering the growth and sustainability of charitable organisations, which play a significant role in promoting economic, social, and cultural development in Kenya. Furthermore, the Act enables enhanced involvement of the public in the activities of PBOs, especially on matters access to information about these organizations.

This means the beneficiaries in whose name project funds are requested can now have an opportunity to scrutinize the operations of PBOs for enhanced accountability.