“PBO Sector Gets Major Boost as Government Unveils New Regulations to Strengthen Transparency, Accountability and Development Partnerships”
By Sophia Mwadehu/Reporter
Public Benefit Organisations (PBOs) have been reaffirmed as critical partners in Kenya’s national development agenda, playing a key role in complementing government programmes, supporting vulnerable communities, and strengthening democratic governance.
Speaking during the official opening of PBO Week 2026, First Lady Mama Rachel Ruto described the launch of the Public Benefit Organisations Regulations alongside the Annual PBO Sector Report 2024/2025 as a significant milestone in strengthening the sector and enhancing its impact on society.
She noted that the new framework marks an important step toward improving coordination, efficiency, and accountability within the PBO ecosystem, ensuring that organisations continue to serve communities effectively while aligning with national development priorities.
Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen emphasized that the regulations, implemented under the PBO Act, 2013, provide the long-awaited structure needed to guide the sector. The framework introduces clear guidelines on registration, governance, reporting, and accountability mechanisms for organisations operating within the sector.
CS Murkomen further assured stakeholders that the government remains committed to supporting PBOs, stating that enforcement of the regulations will be facilitative rather than punitive. He directed National Government Administrative Officers across the country to work closely with PBOs to enable effective implementation of development programmes at the grassroots level.
He added that as organisations transition into the new regulatory environment, the Public Benefits Organisations Regulatory Authority (PBORA) must ensure proper safeguarding and responsible utilisation of organisational assets in line with their registered mandates. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to building a PBO sector that is vibrant, transparent, accountable, and fully aligned with national development goals.
The event was also attended by Principal Administrative Secretary Beverly Opwora, PBORA Chairman Mwambu Mabonga, PBORA CEO Dr. Laxmana Kiptoo, as well as representatives from civil society organisations and development partners.
The forum underscored a shared commitment between government and civil society to deepen collaboration in driving inclusive development across the country.
