Have You Considered Registering Your NGO in Rwanda? Here’s How Simple It Is.

Setting up a Non-Governmental Organization (NGO) in Rwanda is much easier than you might think. An NGO is a non-profit organization that pursues social or political goals without government control. In Rwanda, the Rwanda Governance Board (RGB) oversees NGO activities, and the process is straightforward.

NGOs in Rwanda fall into three main categories:

1. Public Interest Organizations: Serve the general public’s interest.

2. Common Interest Organizations: Operate in a specific field to benefit their members.

3. Foundations: Focus on establishing or managing funds to support specific beneficiaries.

In Rwanda, NGOs can be either National or International. The primary difference between them lies in their origin: National NGOs are established under Rwandan laws, while International NGOs are set up according to foreign regulations.

How to Register a National NGO:

To register a National NGO in Rwanda, you first need to obtain a temporary certificate, valid for 12 months. Within nine months, you must apply for legal personality, three months before the temporary certificate expires.

To apply for a temporary certificate, submit an application letter to the RGB with the following documents:

Official statutes

Details of the head office and full address

Legal representative’s name and credentials

An action plan covering activities, beneficiaries, budget, and sources of funding

Proof of payment for application fees

Information about the representative’s deputy and General Assembly minutes with attendees’ signatures

After receiving the temporary certificate, you can then apply for full legal recognition by submitting a letter to the RGB, along with the temporary certificate and proof of payment.

How to Register an International NGO:

International NGOs must apply through the Directorate General of Immigration and Emigration in Rwanda. The necessary documents include:

A certified copy of the organization’s statutes

Proof of legal operation in its home country and details on global activities