A coalition of Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) has announced the establishment of a new advocacy group aimed at promoting the passage of the Non-Profit Organization (NPO) Bill in Ghana.
The announcement was made during the recent Zonal Consultations held at the GNAT Hall National Headquarters on February 27, 2025.
The newly created 5-member Technical Advocacy Working Group includes a diverse representation of two men, two women, and a member from the Persons Living with Disabilities (PLWDs) community.
This group was formed following a thorough nomination and voting process that involved over 500 representatives from various civil society organizations across the country.
The members appointed to the Technical Working Group are:
– Isaac Boison, Coordinator of the Greater Accra Regional Youth Network (GARYN)
– Dr. Joseph Kobla Wemakor, Founder and Executive Director of Human Rights Reporters Ghana
– Hon. Afisa Otiko Djaba, Former Minister of Gender, Children and Social Protection
-Priscilla AKofa Agbenu, from the Centre for Women in Development and Public Policy
– Elvis Kosi Alipkui, representing Persons Living with Disabilities as a member of the Ghana Federation of Disability Organizations
During the consultations, Ibrahim-Tanko Amidu, Executive Director of STAR Ghana Foundation, emphasized the significance of the NPO Bill for the sustainability of civil society organizations.
“This bill is vital for fostering an enabling environment where non-profits can thrive and make impactful contributions to national development.
It’s essential that we advocate collectively for its passage and ensure our voices are heard,” he declared.
This initiative builds on earlier consultations held in Kumasi on February 18 and Tamale on February 25, 2025, which prompted stakeholders to engage in in-depth conversations about the NPO Bill.
The consultations attracted thousands of CSO representatives who contributed to meaningful discussions aimed at crafting an effective advocacy strategy.
A noteworthy outcome was the call to form an Advocacy Committee responsible for gathering key positions and developing a cohesive roadmap for engagement with government and other stakeholders to ensure the NPO Bill effectively regulates non-profit organizations while fostering their growth.
The initiative enjoys support from STAR-Ghana Foundation, which is funded by @WINGS and the EU through the Lift Up Philanthropy Fund, along with backing from Comic Relief and FCDO as part of the Civil Society Strengthening Programme.
Feruzah Salisu, Project Officer at STAR-Ghana Foundation, highlighted that the formation of the Advocacy Committee marks a significant step toward mobilizing necessary resources for the NPO Bill.
The goal is to enhance the role of non-profit organizations in contributing to Ghana’s national development.
The consultations provided a crucial platform for stakeholders to assess the implications of the NPO Bill draft and outline coordinated efforts to advocate for its successful passage in Parliament.
Source: FMnewsonline
