CSOs key in implementing govt programmes
THE National Association of Non-Governmental Organisations (Nango), an umbrella co-ordination and representative body of non-governmental organisations (NGOs) operating in Zimbabwe, is a membership-based organisation with 1 200 members across the country.
Our members are clustered into 10 sectors (women, children, people with disabilities, economic, youth, land and environment, human rights and governance, humanitarian, health, and media, arts, and culture).
Civil society work has been key in complementing government on several programmes and actions that include response to natural disasters such as cyclones, droughts and famine, social protection support in health, education and to vulnerable groups, civic education.
Furthermore, contribution to the development and implementation of national development processes such as the National Development Strategy 1, Sustainable Development Goals and Vision 2030, among others.
Nango takes note of memorandums that are being isTHE sued by local government structures such as Masvingo, Harare, Manicaland, Matabeleland North.
Further, we take note of recent sentiments by some government departments and politicians on the agenda and character of NGOs.
The NGOs which are under the amalgam of Nango and other like-minded civil society organisations (CSOs) in Zimbabwe are cognisant of the roles they play in complementing government in advancing development at all levels.
Collectively, our humanitarian work and unparalleled service to the marginalised and vulnerable communities during times of disasters, droughts and pandemics such as the COVID-19 continue to demonstrate the unique contribution of NGOs to human development and engendering of resilience across the country.
Furthermore, we have also noted other regulations proposed by some line ministries all of which further limit the autonomy and operational space for NGOs.
We understand that government should assist in facilitating development through the creation and enactment of enabling policies and legislation.
We look forward to a dialogue that can resolve the issues amicably.
The current developments if not managed well may have a huge implication on the welfare of vulnerable communities and reversal of the gains in health, resilience, education, social protection and effective participation of the public in democratic processes.
It is in this regard, that Nango and the broader CSOs, note with great concern the sentiments and issuance of administrative procedures by government departments and politicians targeted at NGOs.
Together we work tirelessly and diligently towards a better and sovereign Zimbabwe.