Repeal of NGO act of 2009 gets in motion

Vice President Inonge Wina (Picture by Albert Mpezeni)

Government has launched the national policy on nongovernmental organizations which repeals the controversial NGO Act number 16 of 2009 which most NGOs described as a bad law meant to punish them.

Speaking during the launch of the national NGO policy under the theme: “A coordinated NGO sector for citizens wellbeing”,Vice President Inonge Wina says the policy will provide guidance to the NGO sector by ensuring that no one is left behind.

In a speech read on her behalf by Community development and social services Minister Olipa Phiri, Ms Wina says the policy will also ensure an effective,efficient and well coordinated NGO sector that contributes to sustainable national development.

She says government recognizes that NGOs play a critical role in national development by complimenting government’s efforts in the development process.

Ms Wina states that government will through the NGO policy provide an enabling environment which will enhance government and NGO partnerships in order for NGOs to maximize their potential.

She has since emphasized the need for commitment from all stakeholders in the sector to successfully implement the NGO policy.

Speaking earlier,NGO Council Chairperson Chanda Nonde says although civil societies are usually misunderstood whenever they speak with boldness as being critical, they have a heart for the vulnerable and do things in the interest of the people.