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The Ministry of Planning and Economic Development has ordered the immediate suspension of seven non-governmental organisations for failing to meet the statutory requirements governing their operations in Sierra Leone.
The directive, issued on Monday, follows a comprehensive review of the NGO operational landscape, which revealed that certain organisations were functioning without complying with the established policy framework. Among the key infractions cited was the failure to maintain an identifiable office within the country, a fundamental prerequisite for registration and continued operation.
The affected organisations are Paida Foundation, Activate Hope Sierra Leone, Women’s Association for National Development, Stitching Wango Sierra Leone, Fama Women’s Programme, Hakeen and Hakeema Charity Organisation, and Assembly of God Development Agency.
The Ministry emphasised that the enforcement action is not intended to undermine the significant contributions that NGOs make to societal development across various sectors. Rather, it represents a proactive measure designed to strengthen the integrity of the NGO sector and bolster public confidence in the management of resources entrusted to these organisations.
“As custodians of public trust and resources, it is imperative that NGOs adhere to the prescribed requirements to fulfil their missions effectively while ensuring that resources are judiciously used,” the Ministry stated in its press release.
The suspension takes effect immediately, with the Ministry warning that continued operations by any of the listed organisations would constitute a violation of the law. The directive was signed by Ag. Development Secretary Usman Q. Qanteh.
The Ministry further indicated that it remains committed to working with compliant NGOs to advance national development objectives, while maintaining that regulatory standards must be upheld to safeguard the interests of both beneficiaries and donors.
