The inaugural 2024 NGO Awards is set to honor Kenya’s most outstanding non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and individuals for their contributions to social development and community betterment. Organized by the Public Benefit Organizations Regulatory Authority (PBORA), previously known as the NGOs Coordination Board, this prestigious event will take place on November 29th, celebrating those making significant strides in sustainable development and positive societal impact.
Among the key categories of the awards is the “Celebrity Champion of the Year,” which highlights the role of public figures who have actively supported community-focused causes. This category has attracted some of Kenya’s most influential celebrities, including comedian Eric Omondi, journalist Janet Mbugua, and media personalities Baba Talisha, Karangu Muraya, and Ndungu Nyoro. These figures have garnered widespread recognition for their involvement in social issues, such as education, health, youth empowerment, and poverty alleviation.
Eric Omondi, for example, is not only a well-known comedian but also an advocate for various charitable causes, often using his platform to raise awareness and support for underprivileged communities. Similarly, Janet Mbugua, a respected journalist, has been a staunch supporter of women’s rights and mental health advocacy, leveraging her media presence to bring attention to crucial societal issues. Baba Talisha and Karangu Muraya, through their work in the media industry, have championed efforts in uplifting marginalized communities, while Ndungu Nyoro has been instrumental in supporting educational initiatives and improving living standards in rural areas.
The NGO Awards aim to shine a light on organizations and individuals dedicated to making tangible differences in Kenya’s social landscape. The event will feature 10 Sector Awards and 13 Excellence Awards categories, which will recognize achievements across various sectors of development, including health, education, environmental sustainability, and humanitarian efforts. These categories will honor both large-scale NGOs and grassroots organizations that have made significant contributions to the well-being of Kenyan communities.
One of the key features of the NGO Awards is its interactive voting process, which allows the public to play an active role in selecting their favorite NGOs. Voting for the shortlisted NGOs is currently open on the official NGO Awards website and will close on November 24th. Public votes will account for 70% of the final scores, while the remaining 30% will be determined by an expert panel of judges. This combination of public and expert evaluation ensures that the winners are chosen not only based on their popularity but also on their overall impact and effectiveness in driving sustainable change.
The NGO Awards also serve as an important platform for raising awareness about the critical work being done by NGOs in Kenya. Many of these organizations operate in challenging environments, addressing issues that directly affect the lives of ordinary Kenyans. From tackling food insecurity and promoting education to providing healthcare services in remote areas, the contributions of NGOs often go unnoticed despite their crucial role in national development.
This year’s awards ceremony promises to be a momentous occasion, with PBORA and its partners, including Awesome Concepts Limited, working tirelessly to bring together key stakeholders from the non-profit sector. It will not only celebrate the achievements of Kenyan celebrities and NGOs but also inspire others to engage in meaningful social impact initiatives.
As the event draws nearer, the public is encouraged to visit the NGO Awards website to vote for their favorite organizations, ensuring that those making the most significant impact receive the recognition they deserve. The awards are a timely reminder of the power of collective effort in creating a more sustainable, equitable, and compassionate society.
In the days leading up to the awards, anticipation continues to grow as celebrities, NGOs, and the general public await the celebration of outstanding achievements in social development. The 2024 NGO Awards will undoubtedly set a benchmark for future recognition of those who dedicate their time and resources to improving the lives of others in Kenya.
