Former Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko has pledged to sustain the operations of the Sonko Rescue Team (SRT) despite looming deregistration threats by the Public Benefit Organizations Regulatory Authority (PBORA).
Speaking from his private office in Nairobi, Sonko assured Kenyans that the organization, which has been operational for nearly 15 years, will adhere to legal requirements to continue its services. He emphasized the foundation’s critical role in assisting vulnerable communities across the country.
“So many people depend on us. Every weekend, we provide free vehicles to transport mourners, distribute food to the hungry, and offer other essential services. We have vowed to continue. That’s our job, and we will do everything within the law to keep helping the less fortunate,” Sonko stated.
PBORA recently announced plans to revoke the registration of 2,802 non-governmental organizations (NGOs) for alleged non-compliance with the Public Benefit Organizations (PBO) Act, 2013. The Sonko Rescue Team, known for its emergency services, including ambulance support, firefighting, clean water distribution, and food aid, is among the organizations at risk.
Sonko expressed optimism about resolving the issues through dialogue with PBORA, reiterating his commitment to compliance.
“I want to assure Kenyans that the Sonko Rescue Team will continue operating because we are law-abiding and ready to meet with the regulator to address any concerns,” he affirmed.
He also urged PBORA to consider the livelihoods of employees and beneficiaries of affected NGOs, advocating for consultations and leniency to facilitate compliance.
“No one wants to lose their jobs. The regulator must give more room and amnesty for organizations to comply,” he added.
PBORA’s enforcement measures follow the operationalization of the PBO Act, 2013, earlier this year by President William Ruto. The Act grants PBORA authority to register and deregister NGOs, monitor compliance, and guide the government on their role in national development.
In a Gazette notice issued on November 21, PBORA CEO Lindon Nicolas accused affected organizations of breaching licensing terms. The notice warned that deregistration would take effect in 15 days unless compliance issues were resolved.
The Sonko Rescue Team has garnered widespread recognition for its community interventions, notably during the COVID-19 pandemic, when it provided food donations to thousands of Kenyans. The initiative has supplemented local government efforts, offering vital services to Nairobi residents and beyond.
Meanwhile, Sonko recently celebrated a legal victory in a property dispute involving SRT’s headquarters in Upper Hill, Nairobi. The Environment and Land Court dismissed a case filed by Rajkosmag Company Limited, affirming that the property is legally owned by the Kenya Railways Corporation Staff Retirement Benefit Scheme, which has leased it to SRT.
Sonko highlighted the property’s significance to SRT’s mission, emphasizing its role in facilitating the organization’s public service activities.
As the compliance deadline approaches, Sonko remains optimistic about resolving the impasse with PBORA.
“Our mission is to serve Kenyans, and we are committed to doing so within the law,” he affirmed.
For now, the Sonko Rescue Team continues its operations, providing essential services to communities and advocating for constructive dialogue to ensure the survival of NGOs under the new regulatory framework.
