Nairobi, Kenya, August 28 – Efforts to bolster Kenya’s Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) sector, which contributed KSh 196 billion to the economy last year through funding, have been intensified with the announcement of the first-ever NGOs Awards ceremony, set for November 2024.
The awards, scheduled for November 29th, will celebrate organizations and individuals across 23 categories, including NGOs, journalists, celebrities involved in humanitarian causes, and changemakers.
These awards aim to recognize the exceptional contributions of individuals and organizations committed to improving lives and making a lasting impact on society.
Public Benefit Organizations Regulatory Authority (PBO) Acting Director General Lindon Otieno emphasized the significance of the event, noting the sector’s vital role in Kenya’s development, with 79,350 people employed by NGOs.
“The NGOs Awards 2024 provide a unique platform to highlight the remarkable work being done by NGOs across Kenya. This is not just a celebration but also a call to action, inspiring others to join in the mission of transforming our communities,” said Otieno.
A recent report by the authority revealed that North America contributed 45.2% of the total inflows to NGOs, followed by Europe at 38.6%, while 21.7% of funds came from Africa.
The report, based on NGOs’ 2023 annual returns, showed that health-focused organizations received the largest share of funding at 33.4%. Children’s services and relief efforts followed, receiving 11.1% and 10.23% of the funds, respectively.
Nairobi led in project implementation, with 1,192 NGOs operating in the capital, followed by Kisumu with 421, and Nakuru with 385. Bomet and Elgeyo Marakwet had the fewest NGOs, with 67 and 71 organizations, respectively.
The NGO regulator has partnered with Awesome Concepts Limited to organize the event. Leonard Ndungu, Managing Director of Awesome Concepts, explained the choice of Nairobi as the host city, citing its status as the regional hub for NGOs and humanitarian efforts.
“Changemakers play a vital role in society, and their stories of resilience, innovation, and dedication inspire all Kenyans. This event seeks not only to recognize and share these stories but also to reward their outstanding contributions,” said Ndungu.
Nominations for the inaugural NGOs Awards are open from today until September 30th, 2024. Individuals and organizations are invited to submit nominations through the official website, www.ngosawards.com.
The event is generously supported by several key sponsors, including the Public Benefit Organizations Regulatory Authority, Kenya Yearbook, Bonfire Adventures, Qatar Airways, Plan International, World Relief, Reel Informatics, and Awesome Concepts Limited.
