MoPED Unveils National NGO Week 2026 to Strengthen Partnerships and Local Development.

The Ministry of Planning and Economic Development (MoPED) officially launched NGO Week 2026 on February 19, 2026, declaring a nationwide honouring of non-governmental organizations’ transformative contribution across Sierra Leone. The week-long observance runs under the banner "Stronger Together: Collaboration, Sustainability and Local Empowerment," coinciding with World NGO Day on February 27.

Presiding over the press conference at MoPED's Conference Hall, Development Secretary Ambrose James joined Minister Kenyeh Barlay in announcing robust mechanisms strengthening government-NGO coordination. Minister Barlay stressed the Ministry's dedication to ensuring resources achieve maximum community impact.

"Our joint participation with NGOs affirms the government's commitment to shared responsibilities, coordination, and ensuring resources are used effectively for maximum impact, including reaching the last mile in communities," Minister Barlay declared. She confirmed NGO activities directly advance Sierra Leone's Medium-Term National Development Plan (2024–2030), targeting critical sectors including health, education, gender equality, environmental sustainability, human rights, and social justice.

Minister Barlay unveiled ambitious district-level interventions, revealing that experts will conduct rapid assessments in Maforki and Marampa districts. These evaluations explore funding through District Development Funds, incorporating one percent contributions from local mining industries.

"Our aim over the next two years is to develop plans for all 190 chiefdoms, leveraging the NGO community's expertise and reach," she announced.

SLANGO Board Chair underscored the week's significance in raising public awareness about NGO contributions. "Globally, this week is celebrated to showcase the work NGOs do and the impact we are making in our communities. NGOs go the extra mile to reach communities and provide essential social services," he stated. He noted Sierra Leone currently hosts over 400 national and international NGOs operating across health, education, justice, and other vital sectors.

Ibrahim B. Kamara, International NGO Steering Committee Chair and Direct Response Organisation Executive Director, highlighted collaborative achievements. "Across the country, NGOs continue working in hard-to-reach areas, extending services, strengthening systems, and ensuring no one is left behind. Communities are not just beneficiaries — they are partners," Kamara emphasized. He spotlighted programs improving maternal and child health, water and sanitation, women's empowerment, youth development, and livelihoods.

During press interactions, the NGO Steering Committee addressed persistent sectoral challenges while acknowledging measurable progress. The Committee confirmed interventions align with individual NGO expertise and complement government efforts. "We recognize the challenges, but we have seen improvements, including reductions in maternal mortality and gradual infrastructure development at the district level," representatives stated.

Minister Barlay detailed comprehensive oversight systems, citing MoPED's Monitoring and Evaluation Directorate and NGO Directorate coordination. "At the district level, committees comprising system stakeholders and NGO leads meet regularly to monitor key development initiatives. This approach has improved coordination and ensures there is no duplication," she explained, confirming district plans emerge through full collaboration with local governments.

NGO Week 2026 launched with Thursday's press conference, followed by scheduled activities including health walks, media engagements, exhibitions, parliamentary open-day sessions, and community outreach programs. Regional celebrations will span Bo, Kenema, Bombali, and Port Loko, culminating on February 27 with World NGO Day. The finale features a presidential address and an awards ceremony recognizing NGOs that have maintained operations in Sierra Leone for over 15 years.

Development Secretary Ambrose James captured the initiative's vision: "Through collaboration, sustainable partnerships, and locally led efforts, Sierra Leone can accelerate development gains and ensure that no community is left behind."

Senior Correspondent-Francess Fatmata Baio

Email: baiofrancess191@gmail.com

Tel: +2332 79331713