President William Ruto’s bid to regulate harambees has faced opposition after senators rejected the Public Fundraising Appeals Bill, 2024. The proposed legislation sought to ban political aspirants from participating in fundraisers three years before elections and bar public officers from participating in harambees during their tenure.
Senators argued the Bill would undermine the harambee spirit, a cornerstone of Kenya’s community cohesion and development. Wajir Senator Abass Mohamed noted that harambees have funded scholarships and vital projects. Elgeyo Marakwet Senator William Kisang emphasized that many schools and churches owe their existence to harambee efforts.
Critics of the Bill, including Migori Senator Eddy Oketch, highlighted the failure of anti-corruption agencies to address misuse of harambees by politicians. Senators like Kakamega’s Boni Khalwale and Narok’s Ledama Olekina shared personal experiences of harambees supporting education and warned against regulations that could perpetuate poverty.
The Bill proposed stringent measures, including permits, financial reporting, and vetting of fundraising venues. It aimed to curb corruption and maintain the altruistic purpose of harambees. Exceptions were made for tithes, offerings, and private family-driven fundraisers.
Despite these provisions, the senators deemed the Bill an overreach that could harm ordinary Kenyans relying on harambees for essential needs like school fees and medical bills.
