SYO Constitution

1Name and Nature

1. The organization shall be known as Siaya Youth Organisation (SYO).
2. SYO is a non-profit, non-partisan, youth-led organization registered under Kenyan law.
3. The headquarters shall be in Siaya Town, with operations across all 30 wards.

2Objectives

SYO exists to:

1. Empower youth through economic opportunities (Vifaa Programme)
2. Build digital skills for the global economy (Tech4Change Programme)
3. Foster active citizenship and voter participation (Youth Voice Programme)
4. Promote environmental stewardship (Greening Siaya Programme)
5. Advocate for youth-friendly policies at county and national levels
6. Create a united, non-partisan platform for youth engagement

3Membership

3.1 Eligibility

• Any person aged 18-35 residing in Siaya County may apply for membership
• Membership is free and voluntary
• Members must commit to SYO's values and objectives

3.2 Rights of Members

• Vote in SYO elections and referendums
• Apply for SYO programmes
• Access mentorship and networking opportunities
• Participate in general meetings

3.3 Responsibilities

• Uphold SYO's values and reputation
• Participate actively in programmes and activities
• Pay-it-forward by mentoring other youth

4Governance Structure

4.1 General Assembly

The General Assembly comprises all members and is the supreme decision-making body. It meets annually and may be convened for special sessions.

4.2 Board of Directors

• 9 members elected by the General Assembly
• 3-year terms, renewable once
• Minimum 40% gender representation
• At least 3 members under age 25

4.3 Executive Team

• Executive Director (hired by Board)
• Programme Directors (Vifaa, Tech4Change, Youth Voice, Greening)
• Ward Coordinators (30, one per ward)

5Elections

1. Board elections held every 3 years through secure digital voting
2. All registered members may vote and stand for election
3. Independent Election Committee oversees the process
4. Results published within 48 hours of voting close

6Finance

1. SYO may receive donations, grants, and programme fees
2. Annual budgets approved by the Board
3. Quarterly financial reports published publicly
4. Annual external audit required
5. No individual may benefit financially beyond approved compensation

7Amendments

This Constitution may be amended by a two-thirds majority of the General Assembly, with proposed amendments circulated at least 30 days before voting.

8Dissolution

SYO may only be dissolved by a three-quarters majority of the General Assembly. Upon dissolution, all assets shall be transferred to a similar youth-focused organization in Siaya County.