The Association of Non-Governmental Organizations in The Gambia (TANGO), in partnership with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and Africa Capacity Building Foundation (ACBF), on 10 July 2013 held its first consultative forum on the role of NGOs in the national development with the theme: “Accountability, Legitimacy and Sustainability”.
The forum, held at the TANGO conference hall in Bakau, attracted participants from various NGOs in the country.
It seeks to bring civil society leaders together for the purpose of deliberating on the critical issues of identity, legitimacy, accountability and sustainability of civil society organizations and the contribution of Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) in national development.
The forum also raised the concern of efficiency, effectiveness and relevance of NGOs in ensuring the delivery of development of goods and services that produce positive results and impact on the lives of the people.
In his opening remarks, Treasurer Momodou Alieu Bah, on behalf of the Chairman of TANGO, said he was looking forward to the establishment of a positive outcome that is beneficial both to them and the people they continue to serve on daily basis.
Mr Bah thanked the UNDP for their partnership in the organization of the forum.
For her part, UNDP Programme Analyst for Governance and Human Rights, Sirra Horeja Ndow, said the UNDP organization last year started a new policy programme on how to involve civil society.
Ms Ndow, however, says the UNDP is the leading United Nations organization in the poverty reduction and sustainable development.
He said that partnership in the civil society organization including NGOs forms an association component of the new UNDP CPAC 2012-14 promoting inclusive development.
She however said the UNDP is committed to creating a space for civil societies to express their alternative views and influence policymakers dialogue and decision-making as well as supporting them in their work in addressing the rights of vulnerable and marginalised people throughout the globe.
She said that the UNDP has a significant role to play in ensuring that policy voices and choices are made available for decision-making.
She said that the UNDP plays a valuable role in various developments at the regional, national and global national level.
Ms Ndow calls for a creative of legal and enabling regulatory environment for a vibrant civil society as well as ensuring the inclusion of civil society in key legislative process.
Speakers on the occasion included TANGO programme manager Madi Jobarteh.
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