By Patience Longwe

Lilongwe, September 13, Mana; The Non-Governmental Organization Regulatory Authority (NGORA) has underscored the importance of Gap assessment survey finding saying it is clearly indicating that there is a strong demand to enhance skills development among local NGOs, International NGOs and donors.

Speaking during the meeting on Friday at the Bingu International Convention Centre (BICC) in Lilongwe, Edward Chileka Banda, Chief Executive Officer of the NGO Regulatory Authority (NGORA), emphasized that while financial management and donor relations are often seen as key areas for improvement, it is important to recognize that these terms can sometimes oversimplify the broader range of skills truly required.

"Our NGOs are telling us that they lack a diverse set of skills, which range from fundraising and technological proficiency to research and analytical skills, advocacy, public speaking, and monitoring and evaluation," Banda stated.

"the survey highlights the preference of local NGOs for institutional funding over individual grants for skills development. This preference reflects the desire for sustainable growth and capacity-building at an organizational level," he said.

Meanwhile, Trustee Chairperson for Congoma, Hestor Mkwinda Nyasalu has expressed his gratitude saying this study which survived over 130 local NGOs and 70 international NGOs, highlights key areas where local NGOs need support and assistance with financial management and resource mobilisation.

"I believe this study findings should be shared with development partners to raise awareness about the challenges local NGOs face, and by sharing this study we can advocate for more targeted support to address these gaps and enhance the sustainability of local NGOs," he  said.