Non-governmental organisations in Kenya have received a one-year extension to transition into the new Public Benefits Organisation framework after an earlier directive requiring re-registration by May 13 sparked widespread confusion. Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen issued the extension via a gazette notice dated May 12, 2026.
The extension gives NGOs until May 2027 to align with the Public Benefits Organisations Act of 2013. Murkomen stated that Public Benefit Organisations complement the nation’s development priorities, especially the Bottom-up Economic Transformation Agenda.
Earlier directives requiring fresh registration had raised concerns over possible deregistration and funding disruptions. The Public Benefit Organisations Regulatory Authority later clarified that the transition for groups registered under the 1990 NGOs Coordination Act is automatic.
Organisations must still update their records on the eCitizen platform with updated constitutions, governance details, audited accounts and board resolutions. Direct implementers will receive new PBO certificates while maintaining continuity with prior records.
