Inaugural NGO awards to honour humanitarian efforts

The inaugural Non-Governmental Organizations (NGO) Awards will be held in Nairobi on November 29, to honor outstanding contributors from various organisations. 

The event will recognize NGOs, civil rights leaders, journalists, and celebrities involved in humanitarian efforts across Kenya.

The Public Benefit Organizations Regulatory Authority (PBORA), formerly known as the NGOs Board, is leading this initiative. 

PBORA’s acting Director General, Lindon Otieno, highlighted the significance of the awards saying; “The NGOs awards offer a unique opportunity to highlight the incredible work being done by NGOs across Kenya. This event is not just a celebration but a call to action, encouraging others to join in the mission of transforming our communities.” 

Nominations for the awards begin today and will be accepted until September 30.

Otieno noted that the sector received Sh196 billion in funding in 2023 and employed 79,350 people, contributing significantly to the country’s development. 

According to the latest report from PBORA, North America accounted for 45.2 percent of total NGO funding, followed by Europe at 38.6 percent and Africa at 21.7 percent.

The report also revealed that health-focused firms received 33.4 percent of the total donations, while those focusing on children and relief efforts received 11.1 percent and 10.23 percent, respectively.

“Changemakers are vital to society, and their stories of resilience, innovation, and dedication inspire all Kenyans. This event aims not only to recognize these changemakers and share their stories but also to reward them,” he added.

Nairobi, with 1,192 NGOs implementing projects, has the highest number of organisations, followed by Kisumu with 421 and Nakuru with 385. Bomet and Elgeyo Marakwet have the fewest, with 67 and 71 NGOs, respectively.

Leonard Ndungu, Managing Director of Awesome Concepts Limited, explained that Nairobi was selected for its status as a hub for NGOs in the region and the center of humanitarian efforts.