Parliament Impressed with NGOs Works Says SLANGO Board Chair
By Hassan Osman Kargbo
The Board Chair of the Sierra Leone Association of Non-Governmental Organizations (SLANGO), Mr Christian Martyn Kamara, has said that non-governmental organizations in Sierra Leone enjoy a healthy and productive relationship with Parliament.
Mr Kamara made this statement during a media engagement on the Good Morning Salone programme on Radio Democracy, where he spoke on the role of NGOs and their engagement with state institutions. According to him, the leadership of Parliament is appreciative of the contributions NGOs continue to make in national development, particularly in communities across the country.
He explained that Parliament recognizes the importance of NGOs in complementing government efforts in areas such as education, health, social welfare, and community development. He noted that lawmakers have shown interest in strengthening collaboration with NGOs in order to enhance service delivery and ensure that development interventions reach the people who need them most.
Mr Kamara also used the opportunity to clarify what he described as a common misunderstanding among the public regarding the difference between non governmental organizations and community based organizations. He stressed that while both structures work at the community level, their mandates and operational frameworks are different.
According to him, NGOs are formally registered organizations that often operate at national or regional levels, with defined governance systems and specific development objectives. Community based organizations, on the other hand, are usually grassroots groups formed within local communities to address immediate local needs. He emphasized that SLANGO’s mandate is strictly focused on NGOs and does not extend to community based organizations.
He stated that SLANGO exists to promote, coordinate, and facilitate the activities of NGOs operating in Sierra Leone. Through its work, the association ensures that NGOs adhere to national laws, policies, and best practices while effectively serving communities. He added that SLANGO also acts as a bridge between NGOs and government institutions to foster cooperation and mutual understanding.
Mr Kamara further disclosed that SLANGO is working closely with the Ministry of Planning and Economic Development to improve coordination and accountability within the NGO sector. He said the partnership is aimed at ensuring that NGOs provide meaningful and sustainable services in their areas of operation.
He explained that collaboration with the ministry helps to align NGO activities with national development priorities and avoid duplication of efforts. He reaffirmed SLANGO’s commitment to transparency, effective service delivery, and continued engagement with Parliament and other stakeholders for the benefit of the people of Sierra Leone.
Mr Kamara concluded by calling for better public understanding of the role NGOs play in national development and the need for continued cooperation among all actors.
