Attorney General Dorcas Oduor has appointed Teresia Wanjiku to serve as the new registrar of societies in Kenya.
The appointment was done via a gazette notice dated April 4, 2025.
“In exercise of the powers conferred by section 8 of the Societies Act, the Attorney-General appoints Teresia Wanjiku Gathagu to be the Registrar of Societies,” the gazette reads.Wanjiku has previously served as Chief State Counsel, Ministry of Lands and Physical Planning.
The Registrar of Societies is an office under the office of the Attorney General that deals with the registration of all types of societies.
He or she is also responsible for registration of society, confirmation of registered officials (where there are no disputes), registration of books and registration of newspapers and magazines.
They are responsible for ensuring that these organisations comply with the Societies Act (Cap 108) and other relevant laws.
The registrar also handles applications for amendment of the constitution of a society, applications for change of name of a society, change of officers or titles of office and confirmation of the status of society for issuance of license/marriage book to church ministers (where there is no dispute), among others.
Charitable organisations like children’s homes, orphanages, education foundations, scientific research foundations, alumni associations, cultural associations and recreational clubs also fall under the Societies Act.
The Registrar can grant exemptions from some requirements for certain types of societies, such as religious organisations, based on the Attorney General’s recommendations.
