Do you need to Register a society, Club or Association in Kenya?

Society Registration in Kenya:

Are you looking to establish a society in Kenya? This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the registration process, including the requirements, procedures, and benefits of becoming a registered society.

What is a Society in Kenya?

Section 2 of the Societies Act defines a society, as a group of people who come together for a common purpose. Societies can include charitable organizations, social clubs, professional associations, religious groups, and more. Registration ensures your society operates legally and gains access to valuable benefits.

Society registration in Kenya compliance ensures that all societies must be registered by the registrar of societies. A society that is not registered or has applied for registration within twenty eight days of its formation shall not carry on any business without authorization by the Registrar. If such a society solicits for donations or contributions from members or from any other person without such authorization shall be conducting unlawful business.

The requirements for society registration  in Kenya are:

• List of Members: A minimum of 10 designated members.
• Officials’ Information: Names, occupations, and postal addresses of the chairman, treasurer, and secretary.
• Society Constitution: The constitution must include the society’s name, postal address, and objectives.
• Application Forms:
  • Form A (Application for Registration of a Society)
  • Form B (Notification of Address and Registered Office of a Society)
  • Both forms must be signed by three officers and submitted in duplicate.

How to register a society in Kenya:

1. Name Search

Conduct a name search to ensure the proposed society name is available for registration.

2. Preparation of Documents

Prepare the society’s constitution and complete Forms A and B.

3. Submission of Documents

Lodge the duly filled forms and the constitution with the Registrar of Societies, along with the prescribed fee.

4. Issuance of Certificate

If the application is accepted, a certificate of society registration is issued. If requirements are not met, the Registrar may issue a Notice of Refusal.

Annual Returns

Every registered society must file annual returns with the Registrar of Societies by 31st March. The form and fee are based on the number of members.

Validity of Registration

1. The certificate of registration remains valid as long as the society exists, unless revoked by the Registrar.
2. The society’s constitution outlines its validity and termination measures.
3. The society may be terminated if it violates the Societies Act 2012 or other laws.

Withholding of Registration

The Registrar may withhold registration if:

• The society is affiliated with a political organization or founded outside Kenya.
• Any proposed officer has previously led a society that was denied registration or revoked.

The Registrar shall withhold registration if:

• The society’s objectives are unlawful or harmful to peace and order.
• The society’s name conflicts with existing societies or laws.

Advantages of Society Registration:

Registered societies enjoy the following benefits;

• Separate Legal Entity: Become a legal entity distinct from your members.
• Own Property: Purchase and hold property under the society’s name.
• Take Legal Action: File lawsuits and defend yourselves in court.
• Tax Advantages: Societies may qualify for income tax exemptions.
• Limited Liability: Protect personal assets from society liabilities.
• Open Bank Accounts: Legally operate a bank account for the society.
• Attract Funding: Raise funds more easily as a registered entity.

Conclusion :

Registering your society in Kenya grants legitimacy, legal protection, and access to financial benefits. By following this guide and understanding the process, you can successfully establish your society and contribute to Kenyan society.

FAQs:

1. Where can I register a Society in Kenya?
Register with Briantony International Consultants. We provide forms, sample constitutions, and quick registration services.

2. How do I register a Society online in Kenya?
Prepare the constitution and forms (A and B), submit them with the required fee to the Registrar of Societies, and receive a certificate upon approval.

3. Is a registered society a legal entity?
Yes, a registered society is a separate legal entity with rights and obligations.

4. Can societies own land in Kenya?
Yes, societies can own land, subject to Kenyan land ownership regulations.

5. What is the minimum number of members required to register a
society and how long does it take to register a Society?
The minimum number of members required in the registration of a society in
Kenya is at least 10 members and it takes 120 days to complete the registration
of a society in Kenya.

 Briantony International Consultants offers the following registration services;

• Societies
• Associations
• Churches
• Private Members clubs
• Welfare societies Under the Registration of Societies Act Kenya
• Registration of Welfare groups in Kenya
• Registration of Self help groups in Kenya