By M, KNA
Civil Society Reference Groups have called on the government to empower and support community groups in their efforts to transform society.
They asked the government to introduce grants to supplement the funds they raise locally and the ones they receive from donors.
They raised concerns over the community groups registration regulations, warning that they might paralyze their operations if not amended.
Among the regulations they want amended are reduction of registration fees for community groups.
Speaking during a public participation forum on the Community Groups Registration Regulations, 2025 in Kakamega on Thursday, the chairperson of the Bungoma County Civil Society Reference Group, Linus Kochel, said community groups play a critical role that should be acknowledged.
Community Groups include Self-Help groups, Special Interest Groups (SIGs) and Community Based Organization (CBO).
The Director for Social Services, Peter Ochieng, assured them that their submissions will be considered and incorporated into the community group registration regulations.
Kakamega Central Deputy County Commissioner, Christine Chacha, warned community groups against using their organizations as a cover for illegal activities, urging them to focus on their registered objectives and empower the community.
