NAIROBI, Kenya — The Office of the Attorney General, through the Registrar of Societies, has issued a 60-day grace period for all registered societies in Kenya to file their overdue annual returns, warning of enforcement action for non-compliance.
In a public notice dated May 15, 2026, the Registrar reminded all registered societies of their legal obligation under the Societies Act (Cap. 108) to submit annual returns, accounts, and required documentation in line with statutory timelines.
The notice states that under Section 30(1) of the Societies Act and Rule 13 of the Societies Rules, 1968, societies are required to file annual returns by March 31 each year, covering the preceding calendar year.
The returns must be submitted using the prescribed form and signed by at least three office bearers of each society.
The Registrar noted that societies that have not complied with the requirement are now being granted a 60-day window from the date of publication of the notice to regularise their status.
Failure to comply within the stipulated period, the notice warns, will trigger enforcement action under Section 12(1)(e) of the Societies Act, which may include issuance of a notice to show cause and possible suspension or cancellation of registration.
“The Registrar of Societies wishes to notify all registered societies of their obligation to file annual returns in accordance with the law,” the notice reads.
The government emphasized that compliance is critical for maintaining the legal status and operational legitimacy of societies operating under Kenyan law.
The notice further urged affected organisations to act promptly to avoid penalties that could disrupt their registration status and operations.
Societies have been advised to submit their documents to the Registrar of Societies at Sheria House, Ground Floor, in Nairobi or contact the office via telephone or email for clarification.
The Registrar’s office operates under the Office of the Attorney General and Department of Justice, which is mandated to register and regulate societies under Kenyan law.
