NGO Salaries in Kenya: How Much Do Professionals Earn?

Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) play a critical role in Kenya’s development, focusing on areas such as health, education, humanitarian aid, and environmental conservation.
These organizations offer employment opportunities in various fields, and salaries differ based on factors such as the type of NGO, funding sources, job responsibilities, and the employee’s experience.
Generally, international NGOs tend to offer higher salaries compared to local NGOs due to their larger budgets and external funding. Below is an in-depth look at NGO salaries in Kenya across different job levels.
Entry-Level Salaries in NGOs
For graduates and early-career professionals looking to join the NGO sector, salary expectations vary depending on whether they work for a local or international NGO.
- Local NGOs: Entry-level salaries typically range from KSh 25,000 to KSh 50,000 per month. Smaller, community-based organizations often offer stipends or lower pay due to limited funding.
- International NGOs: Large organizations with international funding provide more competitive salaries, often between KSh 50,000 and KSh 100,000 per month. Some roles in finance, project coordination, and administration may pay even more.
Examples of entry-level roles in NGOs:
- Program Assistants
- Administrative Officers
- Finance Assistants
- Field Officers
- Communications Assistants
Mid-Level Salaries in NGOs
As professionals gain experience and take on more responsibilities, their salaries increase. Mid-level roles require specialized skills, managerial experience, and an in-depth understanding of NGO operations.
- Project Engineer – KSh 330,000 per month
- Senior Accountant – KSh 263,000 per month
- Economic Recovery and Development (ERD) Manager – KSh 214,000 per month
- Medical Officer – KSh 189,000 per month
Examples of mid-level NGO jobs:
- Project Managers
- Senior Accountants
- Research Analysts
- Communications and PR Officers
- Health Program Officers
Senior-Level Salaries in NGOs
Senior professionals in NGOs, especially those in leadership and specialized roles, command significantly higher salaries. These positions often require years of experience, strong leadership skills, and the ability to manage large-scale projects and teams.
- Program Director – KSh 215,000 per month (Annual: KSh 2,580,000)
- Executive Director – KSh 479,000 per month
- Country Director – Can earn over KSh 800,000 per month, depending on the organization’s size and funding.
Examples of senior NGO roles:
- Country Directors
- Program Directors
- Executive Directors
- Chief Financial Officers (CFOs)
- Heads of Operations
Factors Affecting NGO Salaries in Kenya
Several factors influence salary structures in NGOs:
1. Funding Sources
Organizations with stable international funding, such as the United Nations (UN), World Health Organization (WHO), or large humanitarian agencies, offer higher salaries compared to local NGOs that depend on donations and grants.
2. Job Role and Responsibilities
The complexity of a role determines salary levels. Technical positions like medical officers, engineers, and financial analysts receive higher pay than administrative roles.
3. Experience and Education
NGOs highly value experience and educational qualifications. Employees with master’s degrees, professional certifications, and specialized training often earn more.
4. Location of the Job
NGOs operating in Nairobi and other urban areas tend to pay more than those in rural regions due to the cost of living and availability of funds.
5. Type of NGO
- International NGOs – Offer competitive salaries, medical benefits, and allowances.
- Local NGOs – Pay lower salaries but may offer valuable experience and opportunities for growth.
NGOs in Kenya provide employment opportunities in various fields, and salaries vary widely based on factors like experience, funding, and job responsibilities. While local NGOs may offer lower pay, international organizations provide competitive salaries, especially for skilled professionals.