Kenyan senators have strongly opposed the Public Fundraising Appeals Bill, 2024, which sought to regulate participation in harambees. The Bill, introduced by President William Ruto through Senate Majority Leader Aaron Cheruiyot, aimed to bar political aspirants from participating in harambees for at least three years before a general election. This move was part of efforts to curb political manipulation through fundraising.
Harambee, a Kiswahili term meaning “all pull together,” is a deeply ingrained tradition in Kenya. It has long been a means of community self-help, providing financial support for essential needs like education, healthcare, and infrastructure development. However, senators voiced concerns that the Bill would undermine this tradition. They argued that harambees play a vital role in fostering unity and supporting development projects such as schools and churches.
While the Bill proposed restrictions, it included certain exemptions. Tithes and offerings collected by registered religious organizations, provided the funds are directed toward developmental projects, were excluded. Additionally, fundraising through raffles, lotteries, or activities authorized under the Betting, Lotteries, and Gaming Act would be allowed. Private fundraising appeals by close family members to support relatives were also permitted.
Despite these exemptions, the Bill proposed stringent regulations for harambees. Organizers would be required to obtain a permit, disclose the purpose and target amount of the fundraiser, and submit financial reports to the government every three months. Contributors would need to reveal the sources of their donations to promote transparency and curb corruption.
Senators strongly criticized the Bill, asserting that it would negatively impact vulnerable Kenyans who rely on harambees for survival. Kakamega Senator Boni Khalwale shared a personal story, emphasizing the importance of the tradition. “Without the Sh100 contribution from Mwilista Lihalang’ang’a in 1976, I would not have completed my education,” he said.
Narok Senator Ledama Olekina also condemned the Bill, calling it an ill-advised move that could condemn future generations to poverty. “Regulating this kind of fundraising ensures we condemn this generation to poverty,” he said.
