The extension, which took effect on May 14, 2026, was announced through a gazette notice issued by the Ministry of Interior and National Administration.
The decision means NGOs and charitable organizations will continue operating under the extended transition window as they align with the provisions of the PBO Act.
The Public Benefits Organizations Act was enacted to replace the old Non-Governmental Organizations Coordination Act and introduce a more structured regulatory framework for civil society organizations operating in Kenya.
However, many organizations have faced delays in transitioning due to administrative, legal and financial challenges.
Murkomen said the extension was necessary to give affected organizations adequate time to comply with registration procedures and governance requirements stipulated under the law.
He noted that the move would also ensure continuity of essential humanitarian, advocacy and development services provided by NGOs across the country.
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“The extension is intended to facilitate smooth compliance and prevent disruption of services offered by public benefit organizations,” the notice stated.
The decision is expected to benefit hundreds of local and international NGOs operating in sectors such as health, education, governance, environmental conservation and humanitarian aid.
Some organizations had raised concerns that failure to extend the deadline could expose them to legal uncertainty and operational paralysis.
Civil society leaders welcomed the move, saying it would provide breathing space for organizations still struggling with documentation, restructuring and approval processes.
They argued that the transition to the PBO framework has been slower than anticipated due to evolving compliance demands and delays in administrative approvals.
At the same time, stakeholders have called on the government to simplify registration procedures and enhance engagement with the civil society sector to ensure a seamless transition.
Some lobby groups have also urged authorities to avoid using regulatory measures to frustrate independent organizations critical of government policies.
The PBO Act has long been viewed as a significant reform in Kenya’s civil society sector because it provides clearer rules on accountability, funding and governance for nonprofit organizations. It also grants NGOs greater legal recognition and operational protections.
Murkomen’s announcement comes at a time when NGOs continue to play a crucial role in supporting vulnerable communities facing economic hardship, climate-related disasters and public health challenges across the country.
The one-year extension now gives organizations until May 2027 to complete registration and compliance processes under the Public Benefits Organizations Act.
