Attorney General Dorcas Oduor has appointed Teresia Wanjiku Gathagu as the new Registrar of Societies in Kenya.
The appointment was officially published through 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 notice reads in part.
Wanjiku previously served as the Chief State Counsel at the Ministry of Lands and Physical Planning and brings with her a wealth of experience in legal and administrative affairs.
The Registrar of Societies plays a crucial role in overseeing the registration and regulation of various types of societies in Kenya. These include religious organizations, charitable foundations, cultural associations, recreational clubs, and alumni networks, among others.
Under the Societies Act (Cap 108), the Registrar is mandated to register societies, confirm officials (in cases without disputes), oversee registration of society books, and issue licenses or marriage books to religious ministers.
The office also processes amendments to society constitutions, changes of society names, and modifications of official titles and office bearers.
Additionally, the Registrar can grant exemptions for certain types of societies—particularly religious organizations—based on recommendations from the Attorney General.
Wanjiku’s appointment comes at a time when regulatory oversight of non-state organizations is increasingly important for transparency and national cohesion. The office under the Attorney General ensures compliance with the law and fosters accountability among civic and faith-based institutions.
Her tenure is expected to enhance service delivery and streamline the registration process amid growing demand from new and existing organizations across the country.
