Registering an association in Kenya is governed by the Societies Act (Cap 108, Laws of Kenya). Associations are typically non-profit, non-political groups formed for social, religious, welfare, professional, or cultural purposes.

If you’re forming a welfare group, community-based organization, professional body, or religious fellowship, this guide walks you through the full process — and how our law firm, AWK Advocates, can help ensure compliance and smooth registration.

✅ Step-by-Step Guide to Registering an Association in Kenya

1. Choose a Name and Conduct Name Search

• Pick a unique name for your association.
• Conduct a name search and reservation at the Registrar of Societies (through eCitizen).
• If the name is available, it will be reserved for 30 days.

📌 Tip: Avoid names similar to existing societies or offensive terms.

2. Draft the Association’s Constitution

Prepare a constitution that complies with the Societies Rules. It must include:

• Name of the association
• Objectives
• Membership eligibility and rights
• Governance structure (officials and their roles)
• Meeting procedures
• Financial management rules
• Dispute resolution mechanism
• Dissolution clause

📄 AWK Advocates can help you draft a legally sound constitution tailored to your goals.

3. Prepare Required Documents

Submit the following:

• 2 copies of the draft constitution
• 2 filled Form A (Application for registration of a society)
• Details of at least 3 officials (chairperson, secretary, treasurer)
• Copies of ID and KRA PIN for all officials
• Passport-sized photos
• Physical address and postal address of the society
• Application fee payment (usually KES 2,000)

4. Submit Application via eCitizen

Log into eCitizen and:

• Select “Office of the Attorney General – Society Registration”
• Fill out the online application
• Upload scanned documents
• Pay the required fees

⏱️ Processing time: Registration can take 30 to 90 days, depending on document accuracy and background checks.

5. Review and Approval by Registrar of Societies

The Registrar may:

• Approve the registration
• Request amendments or clarification
• Reject the application (with reasons)

✅ If approved, you’ll receive a Certificate of Registration.

📌 Important Notes

• Associations cannot engage in profit-making or political activities.
• Once registered, you must:
  • File annual returns
  • Notify the Registrar of any changes to constitution or officials
  • Operate transparently and in accordance with your constitution

💼 Why Use AWK Advocates?

At AWK Advocates, we offer professional support at every step of the registration process:

• 📝 Help with drafting your constitution and governance rules
• ✅ Verify all compliance requirements
• 📤 Submit and track the application via eCitizen
• 🧾 Advise on post-registration compliance (e.g., taxes, annual returns)

🔗 Learn more about us: awkadvocates.co.ke

🧾 Summary Checklist

📞 Need Help Starting Your Association?

Don’t let paperwork and technicalities slow you down. Let AWK Advocates walk you through the legal process quickly and affordably.

📧 Contact us today via awkadvocates.co.ke to get started. We also offer custom constitution drafting, compliance checklists, and post-registration support.

Would you like a sample constitution or application form?