Requirements to Register a Welfare / Self-Help Group in Kenya
1. Group Membership
- Minimum: 10 members
- Maximum: Typically up to 100 members
- All members must be Kenyan citizens aged 18+
- Each member must provide:
- Full names (as per ID)
- ID number
- Phone number
- Signature (on group documents)
2. Group Name
- Must be unique and not offensive or similar to an existing group.
- Suggested: 3 name options for name search (e.g. Tumaini Welfare Group, Tumaini SHG, Tumaini Community Support)
3. Constitution
- A group constitution is required.
- Should outline:
- Objectives
- Membership terms
- Leadership roles (Chair, Secretary, Treasurer)
- Meetings and quorum
- Elections
- Conflict resolution
- Financial management
- Dissolution process
4. Leadership Structure
- At minimum, elect:
- Chairperson
- Secretary
- Treasurer
- Optionally include vice-chair, organizing secretary, etc.
5. Minutes of Formation Meeting
- Signed minutes of the meeting where:
- The group was formed
- Officials were elected
- Members adopted the constitution
6. Physical Address
- Indicate the physical location of the group (village, ward, constituency, county).
- Include P.O. Box if available.
Registration Process
Step 1: Name Search & Reservation
- Done at the Sub-County Social Development Office
- Submit 3 preferred names.
- Takes about 2–5 working days.
Step 2: Submit Application Documents
You’ll need:
- List of members (with ID numbers and signatures)
- Minutes of the formation meeting
- Group Constitution
- Elected officials list
- Name approval confirmation
Step 3: Pay Registration Fee
- Varies by county but usually around KES 1,000–2,000
Step 4: Certificate Issuance
- If approved, the group receives a Certificate of Registration under the Ministry of Labour & Social Protection.
After Registration
Once registered:
- Open a bank account in the group’s name (needs the certificate and group minutes).
- Begin table banking, merry-go-round, welfare activities, etc.
- Keep records and minutes of all meetings and finances.
- Renew or update records with the Ministry when needed.