VP to open major NGO conference in Dodoma

DAR ES SALAAM: THE Vice-President Dr Philip Mpango is expected to officiate the 5th Conference of the National Council of Non-Governmental Organisations (NaCoNGO), scheduled to take place in Dodoma City from August 11th to 13th this year.

The conference, jointly organised by NaCoNGO and the Ministry of Community Development, Gender, Women and Special Groups, will be held under the theme: “Evaluating the Contribution of NonGovernmental Organisations to National Development – Successes, Challenges, Opportunities and Expectations.”

The event is expected to bring together around 2,000 participants from within and outside the country, including NGO leaders, government officials, development partners and other stakeholders.

NaCoNGO Chairman Mr Jasper Makala said during a press briefing in Dar es Salaam on Friday that preparations are well underway across the country.

“As part of the preparations, NGO platforms have been conducted at both district and regional levels, with others still ongoing. I would like to take this opportunity to thank District Commissioners in 104 districts and 14 Regional Commissioners who have supported the organisation of these platforms in their respective areas,” he said.

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The Registrar of NonGovernmental Organisations at the Ministry of Community Development, Gender, Women and Special Groups, Ms Vickness Mayao, said this year’s conference will serve as a platform to review and reflect on the work carried out by NGOs across the country, as well as explore ways to strengthen collaboration between the government and NGOs.

“The government recognises and appreciates the contribution of NGOs in various sectors including social services, health, education and economic development. Currently, there are 10,990 registered NGOs in Tanzania. This will be a significant and high-level conference, providing an important opportunity to evaluate the impact of NGO activities and to strengthen the partnership between government and civil society,” Ms Mayao stated.

In recognition of the role NGOs play in national development, the government established the National Policy on Non-Governmental Organisations in 2001.

Subsequently, Act No 24 of 2002, under Section 25, established the National Council of NonGovernmental Organisations (NaCoNGO) to enhance coordination, networking and representation of NGOs operating in mainland Tanzania.