An association is an agreement between three or more persons to establish an organisation with defined aims or purposes to be achieved through the dedication of efforts and resources by such persons and others who may join voluntarily. An association may be established:
- for the purposes of promoting private interests;
- for the purposes of promoting a trade or profession;
- for the achievement of a social or non-profit making purpose.
Associations are not bound to register as legal persons but are entitled to do so. Legal personality however is dependent on registration. An association must, on pain of nullity, be consulted by means of a written agreement.