The Office of the Attorney General has issued a public notice directing all registered societies in Kenya to comply with annual return filing requirements under the Societies Act, warning that failure to do so could lead to suspension or cancellation of registration.
In a statement issued on May 15, 2026, the Office of the Registrar of Societies reminded organisations that filing annual returns is a legal obligation under Section 30(1) of the Societies Act (Cap 108).
The Registrar of Societies, which operates under the Office of the Attorney General, is mandated to register and regulate societies across the country.
These include welfare groups, associations, clubs, non-governmental organisations, religious bodies, and other registered entities operating under the law.
Annual Returns Requirement
According to the OAG, every registered society is required to submit annual returns, accounts, and other prescribed documents to the Registrar before the deadline set by law.
The statement further cites Rule 13 of the Societies Rules, which requires societies to file their annual returns on or before March 31 every year.
The returns must relate to the immediately preceding calendar year and be submitted using Form I as outlined in the Schedule to the Rules.
60-Day Grace Period Issued
However, the Registrar acknowledged that some societies have failed to comply with the requirement and has now granted a 60-day grace period from the date of publication of the notice to allow affected organisations to regularise their status.
The OAG warned that societies that fail to submit the required returns within the extended timeline will face enforcement action under Section 12(1)(e) of the Societies Act.
Such action may include the issuance of a notice to show cause and could ultimately result in the suspension or cancellation of a society’s registration.
Push for Compliance and Accountability
The notice serves as part of broader efforts by the government to strengthen accountability, transparency, and regulatory compliance among registered organisations in the country.
“All societies are therefore urged to take immediate steps to comply with the law within the stipulated period,” the notice states.
The Registrar of Societies has also encouraged organisations seeking clarification or assistance regarding the filing process to contact its offices located on the Ground Floor of Sheria House in Nairobi.
