Welcome to an informative article on how to register an NGO in South Africa.
Introduction
Non-governmental organizations, also known as NGOs, are organizations that are not part of the government and are formed to accomplish objectives such as promoting social welfare, environmental protection, and human rights. In South Africa, NGOs are required to register with the government to operate legally. In this article, we will walk you through the steps to register an NGO in South Africa.
Step 1: Choose a Name for Your NGO
The first step in registering an NGO in South Africa is to choose a name that reflects your organization's objectives. It's important to choose a unique name that does not conflict with any existing registered entities. You can check the Companies and Intellectual Property Commission (CIPC) database to ensure that your chosen name is available. Once you have chosen a name, you can reserve it with the CIPC for six months.
Tip:
It's always a good idea to choose a name that reflects your organization's values and mission statement for effective branding.
Step 2: Draft Your NGO's Constitution
Once you have chosen a name for your NGO, the next step is to draft a constitution that outlines the rules and objectives of your organization. The constitution should include the following:
- Information about the organization's members, office bearers and trustees
- The organization's objectives and intended activities
- Procedures for admitting and expelling members
- Details on meetings and decision-making processes
- The organization's financial management procedures
- Details on how to amend the constitution
Ensure that the constitution complies with South African laws and regulations. Once the constitution is drafted, it should be reviewed and adopted by your NGO's members.
Tip:
You can seek legal advice from a qualified attorney to ensure that your constitution is legally compliant.
The next step is to register your organization with the Department of Social Development (DSD). The DSD regulates NGOs in South Africa and is responsible for ensuring that NGOs comply with local laws and regulations. You will need to submit the following documents to the DSD:
- A completed application form
- A copy of your NGO's constitution
- A copy of your NGO's founding statement
- A resolution from your NGO's members authorizing the registration
- A list of your NGO's office bearers and trustees
Once the DSD approves your application, you will receive a registration certificate. It's important to note that NGOs are required to re-register every three years to ensure that they continue to comply with regulations.
Tip:
Make sure that you keep all your documentation and registration certificates in a safe place for future reference.
Conclusion
Registering an NGO in South Africa can be a complex process, but it's important to ensure that your organization operates legally and complies with local laws and regulations. By following these simple steps, you can ensure that your NGO is registered and ready to make a positive impact in your community.
