Non-State Actors training programme kicks off

Representatives of Non-State Actors (NSA) are meeting for a five-day training on Grant and Financial Management at the Paradise Suites Hotel in Kololi.

The Non-State Actors strengthening programme in The Gambia is taking comprehensive and all-embracing approaches to developing skills of local communities and civil society organisations.

Its overall objective is to enhance the role of NSA in contributing to good governance, poverty reduction and the enhancement of sustainable livelihood in The Gambia.

Its purpose is to strengthen the capacity of NSA to play an active role in development processes and in public life in The Gambia.

Speaking at the opening ceremony, Fergal Ryan, Programme Coordinator of Non-State Actors strengthening Programmes in The Gambia, said: “The programme is funded by the European Union and implemented by the Government of The Gambia with the purpose of strengthening the role of the civil society in governance and services delivery.”

Training was held to build the capacity of the local organisation, including international NGOs, networks, and local NGOs.

He said the project would give out some grants primarily to local NGOs and some international NGOs who will be implementing the programmes in The Gambia.

He said the other thing the project will be doing is to strengthen local networks and improving access to information for local organisation.

He added that all what is needed is to see Non-Governmental Organisations playing a stronger role in formulating policies in working with the government to put policies in place and to monitor progress.

Another objective of the training is to ensure the grant recipients acquire the technical known-how and skills to implement the project properly.

Mr Ryan added that the global objective of the whole scheme is to call for proposal to enhance the role of the NSA so they contribute to good governance, poverty reduction and the enhancement of sustainable livelihood in The Gambia.

He said strengthening the NSA capacities will enable them to better influence the direction of local and national development endeavours, contribute more effectively to the local, national and international communication process and participate fully in the promotion of good governance, transparency and individual integrity for the benefit of the country