What is the Process of registering a Sports Club in Kenya

What is the Process of registering a Sports Club in Kenya?

Sports pays, and its pays handsomely if you plan it as a business. Kenyans are waking up and running sports ventures profitably. Grassroot soccer is a booming business currently. How do you join the party?

Registering a sports club in Kenya involves adhering to the guidelines set forth by the Sports Registrar under the Ministry of Sports, Culture, and Heritage. The process is governed by the Sports Act, 2013, and the Sports Registrar Regulations, 2016. Here’s a step-by-step guide to assist you:

1. Name Search and Reservation:

• Propose three potential names for your sports club in order of preference.
• Conduct a name search to ensure the desired name is available and not already in use.

2. Prepare the Club’s Constitution:

• Draft a comprehensive constitution outlining the club’s objectives, governance structure, membership criteria, dispute resolution mechanisms, and adherence to anti-doping regulations.
• Ensure the constitution aligns with the requirements specified in the Second Schedule of the Sports Act, 2013.

3. Compile Necessary Documentation:

• Strategic Plans: Develop short-term, medium-term, and long-term strategic plans detailing the club’s goals and sustainability measures.
• Register of Members and Officials: Maintain an updated register listing all members, athletes, and officials, including their names, addresses, and positions.
• Logos and Emblems: Design unique logos and emblems for the club to establish a distinct identity.
• Audited Financial Statements: Prepare audited accounts detailing the club’s financial activities and fund utilization for the preceding financial year.
• Compliance Certificates for Officials: Obtain clearance certificates for the Chairperson, Secretary, and Treasurer from the following agencies:
  • Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI)
  • Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC)
  • Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA)
  • Credit Reference Bureau (CRB)
  • Higher Education Loans Board (HELB)

4. Complete Application Forms:

• Fill out Form A (Application for Registration of a Sports Organization) as specified in the First Schedule of the Sports Registrar Regulations, 2016.
• Provide detailed information about the club, including its objectives, physical address, and particulars of the officials.

5. Submit the Application:

• Compile all the required documents and submit them to the Sports Registrar’s office.
• Ensure that all forms are duly completed and all necessary attachments are included to avoid delays in processing.

6. Await Approval:

• The Sports Registrar will review the application and, if satisfied that all requirements are met, issue a Certificate of Registration within 90 days.
• If the application is incomplete or does not meet the necessary criteria, the Registrar may reject it and provide reasons for the rejection.

7. Post-Registration Compliance:

• Within 90 days of registration, the club is required to hold elections to appoint its officials.
• Any changes in the club’s particulars, such as amendments to the constitution or changes in officials, must be communicated to the Registrar within 30 days.

It’s essential to ensure that all information provided is accurate and that the club operates in compliance with the Sports Act, 2013, and the Sports Registrar Regulations, 2016. For detailed information contact us at info@mnwlaw.co.ke or +254733491415 for advice.

Disclaimer: This communication is provided solely as a general guidance tool and does not constitute legal advice. It is not intended to create, and receipt of it does not establish, an attorney-client relationship. For comprehensive legal advice tailored to your specific circumstances, we strongly recommend that you seek and pay for professional legal counsel.

MNW & ADVOCATES LLP