Trust Registration in Kenya: Requirements, Process & Benefits

What is a Trust?

A trust is a legal arrangement where assets such as land, money, or investments are placed under the care of trustees for the benefit of specific individuals or purposes. The trustees manage the assets according to the trust deed and in the best interest of the beneficiaries.

In Kenya, trusts are often used for:

• Family wealth protection (inheritance planning, land ownership, or investments)
• Charitable projects (schools, hospitals, or community development)
• Corporate purposes (holding shares or managing employee benefit schemes)

At Luvisia Digital, we guide families, philanthropists, and organizations in registering trusts and ensuring compliance with Kenyan laws.

Types of Trusts in Kenya

Before registering, it’s important to know the types of trusts commonly recognized in Kenya:

1. Family or Private Trusts → Protect family property and inheritance.
2. Charitable Trusts → Support non-profit causes like education, health, or community programs.
3. Corporate or Business Trusts → Used to hold company shares or manage employee benefits.

Requirements for Trust Registration in Kenya

To register a trust in Kenya, you will need:

• Trust Deed – A legal document outlining the purpose, beneficiaries, and trustees’ powers.
• Trustees’ Details – Full names, national IDs/passports, PINs, and contacts.
• Objectives – Clear statement of what the trust intends to achieve (family support, charity, etc.).
• Beneficiaries – The individuals, families, or groups who benefit from the trust.

Registration Process for Trusts in Kenya

The process depends on the type of trust:

1. Drafting the Trust Deed
   A lawyer or legal expert drafts the trust deed to reflect your objectives and governance structure.
2. Submitting to Relevant Authority
   • Family/Private Trusts → Registered through the Business Registration Service (BRS).
   • Charitable/Public Trusts → Require additional registration and approval via the High Court of Kenya.
3. Approval & Registration Certificate
   Once approved, a Certificate of Incorporation/Registration is issued, confirming the trust’s legal status.

Processing Time: Usually 2–6 weeks, depending on the complexity and whether High Court approval is required.

Benefits of Registering a Trust

• Legal protection for family and community assets.
• Structured management of wealth or charitable resources.
• Continuity – assets are preserved beyond one generation.
• Tax advantages for some charitable trusts.
• Credibility for fundraising or donor support.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Not having a clear trust deed → leads to conflicts among trustees/beneficiaries.
• Choosing trustees without integrity or capacity.
• Ignoring compliance requirements (annual filings, reports).

How Luvisia Digital Helps

At Luvisia Digital, we make the trust registration process simple and stress-free:

• Step-by-step guidance on drafting and submitting the trust deed.
• Linking you with legal professionals for proper documentation.
• Helping families, communities, and organizations avoid costly mistakes.
• Supporting diaspora clients who want to set up trusts in Kenya.

Payment Method: M-PESA Till 9484430 – Luvisia Digital
Note: Our charges are service fees. Government and legal fees are paid separately.

Official Reference Links

• Business Registration Service (BRS)
• Kenya Judiciary – High Court

A trust is one of the most effective ways to secure assets, support beneficiaries, and create a legacy in Kenya. Whether you’re protecting family wealth or running a charitable project, proper registration ensures legal recognition and peace of mind.

At Luvisia Digital, we’re ready to help you register and manage your trust smoothly, whether you’re in Kenya or abroad. Stay tuned: In our upcoming blogs, we’ll dive deeper into how to draft a trust deed and the step-by-step process of registering a charitable trust in Kenya.