On 13th March 2025, we had the privilege of joining the Constitution and Reform Education Consortium (CRECO), Uraia Trust, and the Embassy of Denmark in Kenya for a powerful dialogue centered on advancing human dignity (Utu) through value based leadership. This timely convening also reflected on the evolving role of Public Benefit Organizations (PBOs) in Kenya following the long-awaited enactment of the Public Benefits Organizations Act of 2013, which was officially operationalized in 2024.
The discussion highlighted the urgent need for sustainable pathways for PBOs, particularly in light of the significant reduction in donor funding for non-profit and grassroots initiatives. Central to the conversations were ideas on how civil society can remain resilient and impactful, even in the face of these new financial realities.
Dr. Laxman Kiptoo, Executive Director of the Public Benefit Organizations Regulatory Authority, who was also the chief guest, elaborated on the key elements and principles in the Public Benefit Organizations (PBO) Act 2024. He affirmed the government’s commitment to working closely with non-profits to enhance the impact of their work and ensuring that they remain effective and sustainable in serving the public good. His remarks highlighted the importance of collaboration between civil society organizations and the government to achieve shared goals for social development.
Our Executive Director, Boniface Harrison, who is also a Digital Democracy Fellow at CRECO, shared thoughtful insights on the link between economic inequality and the erosion of human dignity. He pointed out that youth-led digital organizations face particular challenges in accessing funding and operating within rigid registration frameworks. He requested Dr Laxman Kiptoo, the Executive Director of the Public Benefit Organizations Regulatory Authority, to explore more flexible registration models for digital organizations which are often virtual due to limited resources.
The event was further enriched by passionate contributions from leaders and experts. Joshua Changwony, Executive Director of CRECO Kenya, reaffirmed his deep commitment to nurturing a society grounded in human dignity. Bernard Mwandaa, also from CRECO Kenya, used compelling visual illustrations to shed light on the barriers that hinder the everyday practice of Utu in our communities.
Mr Josiah Omotto, a CRECO associate, took stakeholders on a thought-provoking journey through the history of Utu in Africa. He connected Desmond Tutu’s renowned philosophy of “I am because we are” to Kiswahili literature and policy references such as Sessional Paper Number 10 of 1965. His presentation reminded us that Utu is not only a cultural ideal but also a principle that has guided public policy in Kenya.
Mr. Joseph Kimani from the Embassy of Denmark in Kenya emphasized that the rule of law and the protection of human rights are the cornerstones of Utu. He expressed Denmark’s continued support for initiatives that strengthen human dignity and democracy in Kenya.
Other distinguished guests included Mr Davis Malombe, Chairperson of CRECO Kenya, Ms Helen Mudora from Uraia Trust, Mr Kepha Odemba from the Directorate of National Cohesion and Values, Dr Conrad Bosire, a constitutional lawyer, Ms Rose Wanjiru of the Kenya National Interface Team, Mr Jackson Obare from ForumCiv and leaders from grassroots organizations.
The event was interactively and thoughtfully moderated by Salima Macharia from Inuka Kenya, whose warm and engaging style helped foster a space for open reflection and transformative ideas.
Key Deliberations and Collective Resolutions
First, the convening affirmed the need for enhanced collaboration between Civil Society Organizations and the Public Benefits Organizations Regulatory Authority. This partnership is vital in ensuring the PBO Act is implemented in a way that supports inclusion, innovation, transparency, and impact.
Secondly, there was broad consensus that social entrepreneurship must be embraced by PBOs as a path to sustainability. With foreign donor support on the decline, organizations need to innovate and develop locally rooted revenue models that empower communities while sustaining operations.
Most importantly, the participants reaffirmed the urgent need to invest more in advancing Utu across all levels of society. In a world increasingly marked by inequality, mistrust, and exclusion, the spirit of Utu reminds us of our shared humanity. It calls on each of us to uphold compassion, fairness, and justice, values that are more essential now than ever before.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to CRECO Kenya for their tireless work and continued collaboration in this space. Together, we are shaping a future where human dignity is not just spoken of but lived and felt by all.
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