The annual report produced by FHI 360, funded by the U.S Agency for International Development (USAID) for the past 25 years, assesses the strength and viability of the Civil Society Organization sectors in 73 countries including the Gambia.
The report informs and affects CSO’s roles in The Gambia, however; each annual edition contains regional reports, which features countries worldwide including sub-Saharan Africa.
In producing the annual report, TANGO as an implementing partner manages a panel of CSO experts, who scored sustainability across seven dimensions after undergoing rigorous editing processes led by the International Centre for Not-for Profit Law (ICNL) and reports were compiled into regional reports and published.
The index also assessed the capacity of the civil society sector to serve as both a short-term partner in implementing development solutions and a long-term actor in ensuring that development outcomes are sustained.
Moreover, the report also looked at advances and setbacks in seven dimensions affecting the sustainability of the civil society namely: legal environment, organizational capacity, financial viability, advocacy, service provision, sectorial infrastructure, public image.
Welcoming the gathering, Ndey Sireng Bakurin, executive director of TANGO, said the report provides them a snapshot of the sustainability of the civil society organisations and offers a platform for dialogue, collaboration and learning.
“It also enables us to share best practices, exchange ideas, collectively address challenges and catalyse innovation and improvement within their sector.”
Expressing gratitude to partners, individuals and organisations involved in developing the annual report, Mrs. Bakurin noted that their commitments and expertise and tireless efforts have made the invaluable resource a reality.
“Together, we have gathered a comprehensive assessment of the sustainability of CSO, providing ourselves with valuable insights and a roadmap for future actions”. she noted.
Yadicon Njie Eribo, chairperson of TANGO, pointed out that the report provides valuable insights into the current state of Civil Society Organisations in the country, which she observed, highlights the progress made and the challenges they face in ensuring the sustainability and effectiveness of their sector.
The report, she added, is a powerful tool for them to assess the strengths and weaknesses of CSO’s in the country by allowing them to identify areas where support and intervention are most needed.
“Civil Society Organizations face numerous challenges in an increasingly interconnected world, including shrinking civic space, funding constraints and increasing hostility toward their work.” she added.
