The Ministry of Community Development through the department of Registrar of NGOs in partnership with the Council of NGOs in Zambia hosted a validation meeting of the NGO Bill with members of the International Non-Governmental Organisations (INGO) Forum.

The validation gave a great opportunity for allowing the form to have a separate validation meeting as INGOs and been one of the relevant stakeholders in the process of repeal and replacement of the NGO Act. She appreciated the efforts that have been pit with regard the NGO Bill.

Speaking at the same event, The Council of NGOs Chairperson, Mr. McDonald Chipenzi stated that it was a privilege to meet and address member of the collective forum of the International NGOs since the establishment of the Council in Zambia. Most importantly was the validation of the NGO Bill of 2022 after a rigorous repeal and replacement process of the controversial NGO Act No. 16 of 2009.

He further mentioned that it was the Council’s wish for all the NGOs to operate effectively and represent right holders for them to gain their full rights and hold duty bearers accountable without fear of marginalisation, labelling and discrimination. As partners of development, the Act must fully reflect NGOs’ role and Interests in representing communities for their participation in development planning.

And the Registrar of NGOs, Mrs. Pumulo Mundale Moyo, in her opening remarks indicated that once validation is concluded it will bring an end to the repeal and replacement of the NGO Bill. She stated that it is hopeful that the Bill would be presented before Parliament in the next sitting in February.

In addition, she assured that that the government remains committed to providing a conducive environment for NGOs in the Development Process in the country.