NGOs Week 2023 Launch Aims at Powering Sustainable Development in the 21st Century
Interior Principal Secretary (PS), Raymond Omollo has affirmed the government’s commitment to create a conducive environment for the Non- governmental Organizations to thrive.
He urged the organizations to reciprocate and honor their obligations as an affirmation of their commitment to the values that underpin the course of true service to humanity.
“You, as the torchbearers of change, must reciprocate the trust bestowed upon you by ensuring total compliance with our legal and regulatory frameworks. Those that have not yet registered must also formalize their status as the first critical step towards ensuring accountability, transparency, and legitimacy in their operations,” he said.
According to the report, the NGO sector in Kenya spent a total of Sh 185.5 billion in the financial year 2021/2022.
Of these, Sh 118 billion was pumped into project implementation, Sh 49.7 billion for personnel emoluments, Sh 18.4 billion for administration costs, and Sh 4.4 billion on tangible assets.
PS Omollo challenged the organizations to prioritize development projects in critical sectors and align their programs with the government’s agenda on job creation and inclusive socioeconomic empowerment.
“Access to affordable credit for low-income earners, informal traders, women, and youth enterprises through the Hustler Fund and provision of safe, secure, and affordable housing in informal settlements are some of the sectors in the Government’s agenda that NGOs similarly need to plug in,” he noted.
The report also indicates that a total of 9,794 organizations were active, representing 80 percent of NGOs cumulatively registered by the Board.
In addition, some 3,005 NGOs that filed their annual reports reported receiving KES 175.9 billion and spending KES 185.5 billion, employing 71,096 people.
PS Omollo encouraged them to leverage the wide network presented by National Government Administration Officers (NGAOs) to decentralize their operations to the grassroots for maximum impact on the communities they serve.
The launch of the report also coincides with NGOs Week 2023, an annual event that brings together Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) and the public and private sectors to showcase their services and operations.
According to the NGOs Co-ordination Board, Executive Director Mr Mutuma Nkanata ,MBS, The theme NGOs in the Frontline Powering Sustainable Development in the 21st Century perfectly captures the remarkable efforts and impacts of NGOs .
“This organization is not just an engines of progress, they embrace the various complex challenges we face and promote development for all and in all parts of our country including the marginalized areas,” said MrMutuma
He stated that the week has been dedicated to celebrating the credible contribution of non-governmental organizations adding that NGOs have emerged as key agents for change.
“This occasion provides us with the opportunity to reflect upon the role that NGOs play on the Frontline of Powering Sustainable Development in the 21st Century and also expanding the democratic space, promoting respect for human rights and responsible citizenship,” Mr Mutuma disclosed.
The Week encompasses exhibitions and webinars on topical issues about the multi-billion-shilling sector which complements Government development efforts.
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