Upholding corporate governance for long-term funding stability

Congratulations to the non-governmental organisations (NGOs) working in this country! We applaud those who consistently assist during national crises, acknowledging those excelling in hard-to-reach areas and with broad geographical coverage. A special shout-out to the highly-funded NGOs for their impact on national development and as a hedge against forex shortages. Major appreciation goes to all NGOs persevering amid economic fluctuations.

Hats off to the NGO Board for initiating the first NGOs day, themed around recognising the sector’s influence on fast-tracking the implementation of Sustainable Development Goals and Malawi’s 2063 Agenda. Similar initiatives in other countries, like India’s World NGO Day, began in 2010 and officially marked in 2014, have become annual celebrations acknowledging NGOs’ global contributions.

The recent celebration of World NGO Day occurred on February 27, 2023, honouring their invaluable work. In Malawi, the commendation goes to the NGO Board for organising its first-ever NGO Day on December 14, 2023, held at BICC in Lilongwe where we witnessed presentation of awards to best performing NGOs as a symbol of appreciation for their contributions towards the implementation of Malawi 2063 Agenda.

For Malawi to achieve its 2063 goals, inclusivity is crucial. No sector should be overlooked; a collaborative approach is necessary as we march toward Malawi 2063. This inaugural NGO Day should catalyse greater partnerships and contributions toward development. Collaborations are pivotal in realising Malawi’s 2063 Vision.

In a recent article, I emphasised the potential of NGO-generated forex inflows, urging the government to support and empower NGOs rather than stifle them. Kudos to the government for this positive shift towards a sector that has long been downsized.

A brief message to the NGO sector: we’ve gained the attention we sought. It’s our turn to seize the opportunity, revamp our operations, and learn from successful NGOs. Upholding the pillars of corporate governance—accountability, transparency, fairness, and independence—will instil donor confidence for sustained funding. On the other hand, effective governance systems tend to be the second enabler of 2063 and emphasise  effective governance mechanisms, processes and structures.

The board must dedicate sufficient time to responsibilities and adhere to corporate governance codes as per Malawi’s Company Act of 2013, Section 184 (2). Let’s revitalise our board, ensuring only competent and valuable members are elected or appointed. Hold the board accountable for efficient governance. If a board falls short of expectations or the enterprise’s mandate, its composition should be re-evaluated.

As we stride forward towards Malawi 2063, let’s rally together in solidarity. This inaugural celebration of NGOs serves as a beacon, illuminating the path towards a more inclusive and prosperous future for our nation. The achievements celebrated today stand as a testament to the resilience and dedication of NGOs operating in our country. Let this moment be more than just a commemoration; let it be a call to action—a resounding plea to all NGOs to continue their invaluable work with unwavering commitment.

Your efforts in remote areas, during crises, and in bolstering our nation’s development are not just recognised, but deeply appreciated. As we envision a Malawi where no sector is left behind, let us fortify our commitment to transparency, accountability, and collaboration. Embracing these principles will not only strengthen our operations but also enhance our credibility, ensuring sustained support from donors and stakeholders.

Let us seize this momentum, harness the lessons from successful NGOs, and shape a future where our collective actions propel us closer to the aspirations of Malawi 2063. Each step taken in compliance and dedication furthers our progress. Together, let’s continue this journey, unwavering in our resolve to build a brighter and more equitable Malawi for generations to come.