The Principal Secretary for Internal Security and National Administration, Dr Raymond Omollo, on Thursday, June 5 presided over the launch of the Draft Public Benefit Organizations (PBO) Regulations in Nairobi.

The launch of the Draft Regulations marks a key step in the implementation of the Public Benefit Organizations Act, which was enacted in 2013 but was not operationalized until last year following a directive by President ruto.

Dr Omollo said the enactment and operationalization of the PBO Act affirms the Government’s commitment to fulfil its pledges and strengthen the legal framework guiding the operations of civil society organizations in the country.

He noted that the Act aligned with the Constitution, particularly Article 36 on the right to freedom of association.

He said the PBO Act was progressive, noting that it provided mechanisms for asset protection, outlined procedures for registration, enhanced transparency, and established a dispute resolution process through a Tribunal under the Judiciary.

The law also increased citizen participation and accountability in the charitable sector, he said.

The PS called on stakeholders to fully engage in the development of the regulations, which will determine how the Act functions in practice.

He urged public input to ensure the resulting regulations serve the intended objectives of the Act.

Dr. Omollo emphasized the role of Public Benefit Organizations in national development, citing their contribution to service delivery, job creation, and resource mobilization.

According to the Annual Sector Report, the sector received Ksh. 196 billion in project support and employed approximately 80,000 persons.

The Government pledged its full support toward the finalization of the regulations and the implementation of the Act.

The PS encouraged collaboration between the Government, civil society, and other partners in shaping a regulatory environment that allows Public Benefit Organizations to operate effectively.