Civil societies in Botswana gradually began with the delivery of social services. In the long run, the nation witnessed the emergence of various types of nonprofits. Essentially, these organizations sought to provide support in specific areas that were yet to be addressed by the state.
In this article, we will consider the various types of nonprofits in Botswana and their activities.
- Like other members of civil society, charitable organizations are an essential ally of the government
- Some nonprofits have the substantial worldwide influence and lobbying capabilities required to promote social change
- Governments are expected to establish regulatory frameworks for charities to thrive and undertake their obligations.
What are the types of nonprofits in Botswana?
Botswana recognizes the activities of three classes of nonprofits. We will briefly outline each of them for clarity.
1. Company Limited by Guarantee:
These types of nonprofits are established under the Botswana Companies Act. It should be noted that the Companies Act is primarily designed for businesses that prioritize profit. Hence, the charity is given the most official standing by becoming a company limited by guarantee under the Botswana Companies Act.
Also, there are specific restrictions for nonprofits in this class. One such is their inability to declare dividends. Likewise, all profits must be applied to achieving the organization’s goals.
2. Society:
The Societies Act governs the formation of societies. These types of nonprofits are formed when members of a particular interest group or those with similar views come together to form an association.
Basically, there are rules guiding the formation and activities of these groups. Firstly, a resolution to establish a society must be submitted by at least twenty members at the time of formation. Secondly, a society must include its constitution in the registration paperwork. Thirdly, the constitution must specify goals, officeholders, and their obligations. Above all, the Registrar of Societies has the authority to de-register a non-compliant or illegal organization. The registrar also has strict oversight over societies.
3. Trust:
It should be noted that Trust isn’t a business. Hence, it doesn’t qualify as a corporation. It is merely an agreement that the trustees will carry out specified duties or achieve specific goals. This could either be private or public, for the benefit of a particular family, group of people, the general public, or particular interest groups.
The Trust’s most frequent uses are to distribute revenue, operate straightforward enterprises like collecting rent from properties, or serve as governors for public institutions like hospitals and schools.
In general, a trust instrument should be present in every trust. According to the Trust Property Control Act, the trustees, beneficiaries, trust documents, and trust assets must be registered with the Master of the High Court.
What are the activities and impacts of the types of nonprofits in Botswana?
The NGO sector as well as the various types of nonprofits in Botswana have witnessed a steady expansion over the years. Certainly, there is no question that civil society organizations are important collaborators in Botswana’s growth.
While some NGOs are multi-sectoral in character, others are sectoral. Generally, sectoral organizations only participate in one sector. Multi-sectoral organizations on the other hand participate in a variety of development projects. This includes environmental protection, social welfare, capacity building, health, and education.
Over the past three decades, donor funding has been the key factor in ensuring the viability of NGOs in Botswana. Although international NGOs operate in the nation, the majority of nonprofits are local or national.
The work of indigenous NGOs in a variety of fields, including social welfare, poverty alleviation, and cultural development, among others, has been supported by international NGOs and governments from developed countries.
Likewise, the majority of NGOs presently operating in the country today are products of post-independence development. These organizations were founded in response to community needs.
Conclusion
Like other members of civil society, charitable organizations are an essential ally of the government. Hence, the various types of nonprofits are known to offer essential services that promote community and national development.
By and large, some nonprofits have the substantial worldwide influence and lobbying capabilities required to promote social change. Therefore, governments are expected to establish regulatory frameworks for charities to thrive and undertake their obligations.
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