Authority conducts risk-based monitoring framework workshop for NPOs

The Public Benefit Organizations Regulatory Authority (PBORA) in partnership with the German Society for International Cooperation (GIZ) on Thursday held a workshop on Non-profit Organizations (NPO) Risk-based Monitoring Framework for organizations at the risk of terrorism financing abuse at Fairview Hotel, Upper Hill in Nairobi on November 13, 2025.

The Risk-based Monitoring Framework approach is considered key to the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) standards, especially Recommendation 8 which stresses the principle of effective allocation of resources according to the risks identified. The framework therefore seeks to apply proportionate measures to NPOs that are considered to be at high risks of terrorism financing abuse without unduly burdening low-risk NPOs or disrupting their legitimate charitable work.

The FATF is an intergovernmental policy-making body established in 1989 as a global watchdog against money laundering and terrorism financing. Based in Paris, France, FATF is responsible for setting international standards to guide national authorities to effectively fight against illicit funds connected to crimes like drug trafficking, proliferation of illicit arms, and cybercrimes among others.

Kenya is among the more than 200 countries and jurisdictions that form a globally coordinated response to the prevention of terrorism, corruption, and cybercrime by committing to implement FATF’s standards.

Stakeholders from various non-profit organizations at the workshop were taken through the framework highlighting its core components and key principles. Some of the components of the Risk-based Framework of monitoring include risk assessment, mitigating measures, outreach and information sharing, and effective monitoring and supervision while adhering to the principles of proportionate target, effectiveness, and international cooperation.

Speaking earlier on Spice FM, PBORA’s Chief Executive Officer Dr. Laxmana Kiptoo said that the Authority is committed to the protection of the NPOs conducting legitimate activities in the country but at the same time keen on dealing with those that may be involved in illegitimate business.

“At the Authority, we are committed to protecting the NPOs from terrorism financing abuse because sometimes NPOs themselves may not be aware of how terrorist networks operate. A PBO may approach many partners for financial support but not all donors have good intentions so we sensitize NPOs on counter terrorism financing measures,” he told listeners.