Extension of the Transition Period Under the Public Benefits Organizations Act
The Cabinet Secretary for Interior and National Administration has extended the transition period under the Public Benefits Organizations Act, 2013 (the “PBO Act”) by a further one (1) year through Gazette Notice No. 85 of 2026.
This development follows the operationalization of the PBO Act and the publication of the Public Benefit Organizations Regulations, 2026, which establish the governance reporting and compliance standards applicable to public benefit organizations in Kenya.
Extension of compliance deadline for PBOs
PBOs that are yet to commence the compliance process are required to do so within the extended transition period. The additional time provides organizations with an opportunity to complete these processes without disrupting ongoing programs, donor engagements or contractual obligations.
Compliance with the PBO Act entails, among other things, conducting legal and governance compliance reviews, updating governance documents and preparing of the necessary transition filings and supporting documentation.
Conclusion
The extension of the transition period provides PBOs with additional time to align their operations and governance structures with the requirements of the PBO Act. Organizations should therefore take advantage of this period to undertake the necessary compliance reviews and complete the transition process within the prescribed timelines.
At CM Advocates LLP, we are well-positioned to support local and international organizations through this transition by providing legal support and guidance on compliance obligations, reviewing governance structures and documents.
If you would like to consult on this alert or any other legal issue, you may contact the commercial team through law@cmadvocates.com.
You can also visit our website https://cmadvocates.com/en for more information about us and our services.
Contact person & contributor
Maureen Odongo
Senior Associate, Corporate-Commercial Business Unit
Charities & Social Impact Organisations (CSIO) Practice
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