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How do I register a self help group?

Table of Contents

  1. Introduction

  2. Registration of Self-Help Groups 2.1. Eligibility Criteria 2.2. Requirements for Registration 2.3. Procedure for Registration

  3. Conclusion

Introduction

This response will provide information on the process of registering a self-help group in Kenya. The information provided will be based on the relevant legal framework governing the registration of such groups.

Registration of Self-Help Groups

2.1. Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for registration as a self-help group in Kenya, the group must meet the following criteria:

  • Be a group of at least five (5) persons: This is a minimum requirement for forming a self-help group. The group must have a minimum of five members to be eligible for registration. (Source: The Societies Act, Cap 108, Laws of Kenya)

  • Have a common objective: The group must have a shared purpose or goal that unites its members. This objective should be clearly defined in the group's constitution or by-laws. (Source: The Societies Act, Cap 108, Laws of Kenya)

  • Be non-profit making: Self-help groups are not allowed to operate for profit. Their primary purpose should be to benefit their members and the community. (Source: The Societies Act, Cap 108, Laws of Kenya)

  • Be formed in accordance with the Societies Act: The group must comply with the provisions of the Societies Act, which outlines the legal framework for the formation and operation of societies in Kenya. (Source: The Societies Act, Cap 108, Laws of Kenya)

2.2. Requirements for Registration

To register a self-help group in Kenya, the following documents and information are required:

  • Application form: The group must submit a completed application form to the Registrar of Societies. This form can be obtained from the Registrar's office or downloaded from the Ministry of Interior and Coordination of National Government website. (Source: The Societies Act, Cap 108, Laws of Kenya)

  • Constitution or by-laws: The group must have a written constitution or by-laws that outline its objectives, membership, governance structure, and other operational details. (Source: The Societies Act, Cap 108, Laws of Kenya)

  • List of members: The group must provide a list of all its members, including their names, addresses, and contact information. (Source: The Societies Act, Cap 108, Laws of Kenya)

  • Minutes of the first meeting: The group must submit minutes of its first meeting, which should include the election of officers and the adoption of the constitution or by-laws. (Source: The Societies Act, Cap 108, Laws of Kenya)

  • Certificate of incorporation: If the group is a company limited by guarantee, it must provide a certificate of incorporation from the Registrar of Companies. (Source: The Companies Act, 2015)

  • Proof of identity: Each member of the group must provide proof of identity, such as a national identity card or passport. (Source: The Societies Act, Cap 108, Laws of Kenya)

  • Registration fee: The group must pay a registration fee to the Registrar of Societies. The fee amount is specified in the Societies Act. (Source: The Societies Act, Cap 108, Laws of Kenya)

2.3. Procedure for Registration

The following steps outline the procedure for registering a self-help group in Kenya:

  1. Form a group: The first step is to form a group of at least five individuals who share a common objective.

  2. Draft a constitution or by-laws: The group must draft a written constitution or by-laws that outline its objectives, membership, governance structure, and other operational details.

  3. Hold a first meeting: The group must hold a first meeting to elect officers and adopt the constitution or by-laws.

  4. Gather required documents: The group must gather all the required documents, including the application form, constitution or by-laws, list of members, minutes of the first meeting, and proof of identity for each member.

  5. Submit application: The group must submit the completed application form and all supporting documents to the Registrar of Societies.

  6. Pay registration fee: The group must pay the registration fee to the Registrar of Societies.

  7. Receive certificate of registration: Once the application is approved, the Registrar of Societies will issue a certificate of registration to the group.

Conclusion

The registration of a self-help group in Kenya is a straightforward process that involves meeting the eligibility criteria, gathering the required documents, and submitting an application to the Registrar of Societies. By following the steps outlined above, individuals can successfully register their self-help group and operate legally in Kenya.

Answered by mwakili.com