By Forum staff writer
The Sierra Leone Association of Non-Governmental Organizations (SLANGO) has officially launched activities marking NGO Week with a press conference held on Thursday 19 February 2026, as part of preparations for the National NGO Day scheduled for 27th February 2026.
The press conference, held in Freetown, brought together leaders of civil society organizations, development partners, government officials, and members of the media to outline activities planned for the week and to highlight the contribution of NGOs to national development.
Speaking at the event, the Board Chair of Sierra Leone Association of Non Governmental Organizations and Chief Executive Officer of YMCA Sierra Leone, Mr Christian Martyn Kamara, said the engagement was aimed at creating national awareness around NGO Week and the upcoming celebration.
“Globally, this week is observed to showcase the important work that NGOs do across the world. It highlights not only their role in research but also the real impact they continue to make within communities,” Kamara said. He noted that NGOs play a critical role in the development of every country they serve and that the celebration provides an opportunity to recognize and appreciate those contributions.
According to him, a series of community based activities have been planned throughout the week, focusing on the delivery of essential social services. These activities, he said, would also allow NGOs to reflect on their achievements, celebrate successes, and strengthen collaboration with local authorities and public institutions.
Chairman of the National NGO Steering Committee, Mr Abdul Rahman Sesay, said the committee was working closely with stakeholders to ensure a meaningful and inclusive celebration. He stated that NGO Week would serve as a platform to deepen engagement between NGOs, government institutions, and communities.
“This celebration is not only about recognition, but also about accountability and partnership,” Sesay said. “We want the public to clearly understand the role NGOs play in complementing government efforts in health, education, research, data systems, and community development.”
Delivering the keynote address, Minister of Planning and Economic Development, Madam Madam Barley, commended NGOs for their continued support to national development. She said the government values the partnership with civil society organizations, describing them as key actors in achieving sustainable development goals.
“NGOs are critical partners in national planning and service delivery,” the minister said. “From research and policy advocacy to direct service provision in hard to reach communities, your work continues to shape development outcomes across the country.”
She added that the government remains committed to strengthening collaboration with NGOs to ensure development interventions are coordinated, effective, and aligned with national priorities.
Earlier, the Chairman of the press conference and Development Secretary at the Ministry of Planning and Economic Development, Mr Ambrose James, said the engagement was important in setting the tone for NGO Week. He noted that over 400 NGOs, both national and international, are currently operating in Sierra Leone, contributing significantly to development across various sectors.
Mr James encouraged NGOs and the media to use the celebration to promote transparency, share success stories, and educate the public on the impact of civil society work.
NGO Week activities will climax on 27 February 2026 with the official National NGO Day celebration. Organizers say the week long observance will not only celebrate the work of NGOs but also reaffirm their commitment to national development, community empowerment, and inclusive growth in Sierra Leone.
