XI. Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs)

Mr Speaker,

• Over the year, the number of NGO’s operating in the country has increase immensely, primarily in response to the need of the society, particularly the poor and the under privileged in socio-economic development and in the vital areas of health, education and environment. Their pioneering role in complementing the effort of the government in achieving national development objectives has been greatly recognised and appreciated. So far, one hundred and one NGOs, comprising international and local organisations, have been granted approval for registration out of which, 3 organisations have phased out.

• The NGO Affairs Agency is in the process of compiling a comprehensive NGO Directory, which will go a long way to facilitate information sharing and serve a useful purpose to potential NGOs and the general public.

-end.