A Friendly Society is an unlimited number of persons who join together to achieve a common financial and/or social purpose. The members voluntarily bind themselves to rules which are capable of variations in the future, subject to a majority of such members agreeing. It cultivates the practice of thrift, self reliance, self help, and assist in fostering community spirit, poverty eradication, and nation building.
There are several types of Societies which are applied in CAP 184 of
THE FRIENDLY SOCIETIES ACT:-
Friendly Societies
The purpose of this society is to provide voluntary subscriptions by members with or without the aid of donations.
Working Man’s Club
The purpose of this society is to provide voluntary subscriptions by members with or without the aid of donations.
Friendly Societies
This Society is used for sporting activities, propagation of culture and social intercourse. Its origin can be traced to ancient Egypt.
Cattle Insurance Society
For insurance against the loss of meat cattle, sheep, lambs, swine, horses and other animals by death from disease or otherwise.
Benevolent Societies
For any benevolent or charitable purpose.
Specially Authorized Societies
For any purpose which the minister may authorized which are in accordance with the Act.
Benefits
| Death benefit | Birth benefit |
| Sick benefit | Funeral Expenses |
| Optical benefit | Travel in search of employment benefit |
| Dental benefit | Distressed circumstances benefit |
| Maternity benefit | Endowment of members or nominees benefits |
| Retirement benefit | Fire insurance benefits |
| Investment fund | Animals insurance benefits |
How Does One Become A Member of a Friendly Society?
Generally, a person wishing membership is recommended by a member and according to the societies rule may be required to pay and maintain a membership fee. Every society’s benefits differ. As a result, member’s weekly or monthly contributions may also differ.
What Contributions Do Friendly Societies Make to Their Communities?
A Friendly Society helps in bringing a community together. It teaches thrift and self reliance. It assists in uniting all the people regardless of colour, creed, race and religion. It acts as a vanguard in fighting the social ills of the community.