By: Precious Miracle Kargbo (Snr)
The Ministry of Planning and Economic Development (MoPED), in partnership with the Sierra Leone Association of Non-Governmental Organizations (SLANGO), has officially launched the NGO Open Information Initiative.
The platform is designed to enhance transparency, accountability, and alignment of non-governmental organizations (NGOs) with Sierra Leone’s national development priorities. It provides a structured space for NGOs to share their plans, objectives, and progress with both the government and the public.
Key stakeholders, including the African Health Foundation (AHF) and Aberdeen Women’s Centre, participated in the launch and presented their strategic plans for 2026. These organizations will use the platform to ensure that their programs are in line with the government’s development agendas.
Officials highlighted that effective collaboration among NGOs is crucial for maximizing resource utilization and achieving meaningful impact across various sectors. The Open Information Initiative provides a transparent framework for NGOs to articulate their objectives, report progress, and engage communities, fostering trust and accountability.
The initiative comes at a time when Sierra Leone’s development landscape is evolving, requiring integrated approaches to address challenges in health, education, and economic growth. By promoting sustained dialogue between the government and NGOs, the initiative aims to facilitate coordinated interventions that meet community needs.
MoPED’s commitment to transparency aligns with broader government efforts to ensure development strategies are participatory and inclusive. By inviting input from NGOs, the government seeks to create an environment where all stakeholders contribute to shaping policies that affect communities.
As the initiative develops, stakeholders anticipate that it will not only improve accountability but also strengthen partnerships between NGOs and government institutions, ultimately enhancing the efficiency and impact of development programs in Sierra Leone.