NPOs urged to comply

Non-profit organisations (NPO) have become an integral part of many people’s lives over the years and a large part of local economies in many ways. However, when it comes to setting up an NPO there’s a lot to learn and look out for.

For this purpose, the Gauteng Department of Social Development on the West Rand hosted an information-sharing session at the Chief Mogale Hall in Kagiso on Friday, June 11.

Social Work Manager, Ikgopoleng Rankudu said, “We are here to share information about NPO legislation and its implementation. When you register an NPO, please always remember that you are not selling products, but rendering a service. When rendering a service, it’s about the people or beneficiaries, and you are always governed by the Nonprofit Organisations Act 71 of 1997. There are also acts of specific services, like the Older Persons Act 13 of 2006. Please comply with all the legislation to avoid complications.”

Deputy Director of the NPO Financing Directorate, Nono Yende added, “It’s important for us to engage with you to ensure that every cent is accounted for. Please submit your annual reports to comply with the provisions of Act 71. When you have money in your account, take your books to a qualified auditor. Always verify the organisation’s compliance status to update both organisational and the office bearer’s details in the National NPOs Database.”

Media Liaison for the Gauteng Department of Social Development, Sibusiso Chauke said in a press statement, “NPO registration requirements are that every organisation that seeks to register as an NPO in terms of sections 12 and 13 of the NPO Act must seek the following documents: Constitution (founding document) scribed application form that contains the organisation’s contact and the office bearer’s details, and copies of their identity documents. The NPOs must also comply with municipal acts such as environmental, town planning, safety and fire.”