Registering a Self-Help Group (SHG) in Kenya is now easier than ever, thanks to the online services available through the eCitizen portal. This platform, which was upgraded Last January, now supports over 10,000 government services, including the registration of SHGs. You can complete this process from the comfort of your home using just a computer.

Requirements for SHG Registration

Before diving into how to create a members list for your SHG, let’s outline the key requirements you’ll need for the registration process:

1. eCitizen Account: You’ll need to have an account on the eCitizen portal.
2. Members List in Excel: A comprehensive list of all group members, formatted in Excel.
3. Group Constitution: A document outlining the group’s name, rules, and regulations.
4. Meeting Minutes: A record showing the election of the new group leaders and a resolution to register the group as a Self Help Group.
5. Next of Kin List: A list that includes details of the next of kin for each group member.
6. Application Fee: A fee of Ksh 1,000 is required, payable after the online application is submitted.

This guide will focus on helping you create the members list in Excel, a crucial component for your SHG registration.

How to Create a Members List for SHG Registration

To prepare the members list, you’ll need the following information for each member:

• First Name (FirstName)
• Middle Name (MiddleName)
• Last Name (LastName)
• Identity Number (IdentityNumber)
• Date of Birth (DateOfBirth)
• Gender
• Email
• Mobile
• Member Role (MemberRole)
• Disability

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Open Excel: You can use Microsoft Excel, Google Sheets, or LibreOffice Spreadsheets, depending on what you have available.
2. Create Headers:
   • In the first row, input the placeholders for each piece of required information.
   • For example, in cell A1, type FirstName; in B1, type MiddleName; and so on until all the headers are complete across the first row.
3. Fill in Member Details:
   • Starting from the second row, input each member’s details under the corresponding headers.
   • Ensure that all information is accurate and consistent, especially identity numbers and dates of birth.
4. Save the Excel File:
   • Once you’ve filled in all the required information, save your Excel file.
   • Use a recognizable name, like “SHG_Members_List,” and choose the .xlsx or .xls format.

Using a Template

To make this process even simpler, you can download an Excel template that already has the necessary placeholders in place. Just clear the existing names and details, replace them with your group’s information, and save the file as Excel.

Download Excel Template (Link to the template)

Final Steps

After you’ve created your members list, you can proceed with uploading it to the eCitizen portal as part of your SHG registration process. Ensure you also have the other required documents ready, such as your group constitution, meeting minutes, and next of kin list. Once everything is in order, submit your application and pay the Ksh 1,000 fee.

By following this guide, you’ll be well-prepared to register your SHG efficiently and correctly.