Zimbabwe just passed a law that will significantly change the lives of volunteer groups. The new rules require groups to register with the government, report who runs them, tell officials about any changes they make, stay out of politics, use official banks for money matters, and explain where donations come from.
The government created tougher punishments for groups that break these rules. Groups must sign up within 90 days or face fines. Leaders can go to jail if their organizations support political parties or candidates. Officials can remove group leaders they think are doing wrong.
Foreign money transfers face more oversight. Groups must prove they fight money laundering. Organizations need to show they follow international rules on preventing terrorism funding. The law also covers trusts that act like charities.
The registrar gained more power to approve or reject applications without going through the board first. Groups must pay fees when they apply. They must also tell the government about major changes to their work or leadership. The law creates criminal charges for serious violations.
The government created tougher punishments for groups that break these rules. Groups must sign up within 90 days or face fines. Leaders can go to jail if their organizations support political parties or candidates. Officials can remove group leaders they think are doing wrong.
Foreign money transfers face more oversight. Groups must prove they fight money laundering. Organizations need to show they follow international rules on preventing terrorism funding. The law also covers trusts that act like charities.
The registrar gained more power to approve or reject applications without going through the board first. Groups must pay fees when they apply. They must also tell the government about major changes to their work or leadership. The law creates criminal charges for serious violations.
