03 Mar 2025

 Minister of Labour and Home Affairs, Major General Pius Mokgware, has urged non-governmental organisations (NGOs) to be self-sustainable.

Speaking at the commemoration of World NGOs Day in Gaborone recently, Minister Mokgware highlighted the need for NGOs to generate their own funding, stating that, ‘the reliance on external funding can limit the independence and flexibility of NGOs.’

He therefore encouraged them to explore avenues for generating revenue and diversifying funding sources. Reflecting on the day’s festivities, the British High Commissioner and UK Special Representative to SADC, Mr Giles Enticknap, highlighted the integral role NGOs play in Botswana’s development, championing democratic values, holding institutions accountable, promoting transparency, and driving good governance.

He emphasised the impact NGOs make in society each day, lauding their vital contributions to the social fabric.

“The impact of NGOs extends beyond advocacy and support,” said Mr Enticknap.

He further stated that NGOs’ work contributed to the foundations of an attractive investment environment, fostering transparency, accountability, and inclusivity.

“These are key elements for a stable and enabling environment where businesses thrive and investors feel secure,” he said.

Furthermore, he indicated that strong civil societies demonstrate a country’s openness, fairness, and resilience to the world, which he said were crucial attributes for driving economic growth and development. Mr Enticknap emphasised the United Kingdom (UK)’s ongoing commitment to supporting open and diverse civic spaces.

He highlighted the UK government’s shared vision with President Duma Boko expressed during a recent discussion with Lord Collins, the UK Minister for Africa, to foster a strong and effective civil society that holds the government accountable and encourages productive partnerships with Civil Society Organizations (CSOs).

Shifting his focus on NGOs in Botswana, Mr Enticknap expressed gratitude for their significant contributions to the country’s communities, acknowledging the many difficulties NGOs face.

“I want to express our deepest appreciation to all NGOs, staff, volunteers, and partners. Your tireless efforts to enhance the lives of people across Botswana, often in challenging circumstances, are a true inspiration,” he said.

He also paid special tribute to those organisations that responded to the recent floods, recognising their dedication and service during a time of crisis. Mr Enticknap reaffirmed the British High Commission’s commitment to fostering strong partnerships with Botswana’s new administration.

He recognised the importance of NGOs in achieving shared priorities and acknowledged the challenges they face in today’s geopolitical landscape.

“We recognise that resources may not always meet the growing needs, but we are dedicated to supporting you where we can. Our goal is to develop innovative partnerships that uphold the freedoms of all individuals,” he added.

Mr Enticknap also expressed admiration for the government of Botswana’s efforts to create a conducive environment for NGOs to thrive. The United Nations Resident Coordinator, Mr Zia Choudhury, addressed the issue of negative perceptions about NGOs.

He identified a significant disconnect in understanding between sectors, noting that some mistakenly see NGOs as purely profit-driven or as excessively negative.

“The notion that NGOs are corrupt businesses or are only focused on complaining, represents a significant misunderstanding of their role. We need everyone, including other organisations, to fully comprehend the vital work that NGOs perform,” he stressed.

Mr Choudhury delved deeper into the misconception, stressing the need to appreciate the diversity within NGOs.

“The term ‘NGO’ is a wide umbrella, encompassing organisations of all sizes and activities, from volunteer-led efforts to globally renowned groups. They cover an array of areas, from humanitarian aid to policy research, tax justice, disability rights, environmental protection, advocacy, service provision, watch-dogging, and driving change. It is important to recognise that NGOs are not a monolith,” Mr Choudhury emphasised.

“They are diverse, unique, and should be treated as such. If we fail to define ourselves, others will define us, often unfairly and negatively. NGOs’ diversity is a strength, and they should leverage that strength to advance their objectives,” he asserted.

Mr Choudhury further brought to light the challenges faced by NGOs worldwide, noting that across the globe, NGOs were under pressure.

“They face funding restrictions, are denied work permits, hindered from traveling, and accused of being political opponents,” said

He lauded President Boko’s openness to criticism and accountability, urging BOCONGO to take full advantage of this opportunity. Mr Choudhury also advised NGOs to embrace collaboration across sectors, with the government and among themselves, while still maintaining their independence.

He urged NGOs to uphold the highest standards of governance, accountability, and transparency, and to actively diversify their funding sources, stressing the risks associated with relying on donor funding. He therefore affirmed the UN’s commitment to supporting NGOs, citing their essential role in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and Botswana’s national priorities.

“NGOs are critical partners in driving progress and advancing human rights. We stand with you,” he affirmed.

The BOCONGO Executive Director, Ms Kagiso Molatlhwa, highlighted the key aims of the World NGOs Day, drawing attention to the day’s primary purpose; to honour and appreciate the indispensable contributions of non-governmental organisations in addressing a diverse range of social issues, from poverty and education to democratic governance, social protection, gender-based violence (GBV), health care, environmental sustainability, and beyond.

The World NGOs Day commemorations ended in a thought-provoking panel discussion featuring a diverse range of representatives, including the Ambassador of France to Botswana and SADC, Mr Olivier Brochenin, Civic Commission for Africa President, Ms Maungo Mooki, and AOX Botswana CEO, Mr Tlamelo Apadile.

The panelists discussed among others the challenges faced by NGOs, including funding restrictions, regulatory hurdles, limited public awareness, and difficulties in promoting partnerships and collaboration. ENDS