Council of NGOs Expresses Concern Over Delays in 2022 NGO Bill



By Francis Maingaila 

Lusaka, October 8, 2024 — The Council of Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) has raised alarm over delays in enacting the 2022 NGO Bill, which is set to replace the current 2009 NGO Act. 

Council Chairperson Dr. Roy Mwilu called for immediate action to expedite the bill's passage, warning that the delay is causing uncertainty in the sector and stalling development initiatives.

“The 2022 NGO Bill was extensively debated and reviewed by civil society organizations, NGOs, faith-based organizations, and rights groups,” Mwilu said. 



“It is designed to improve transparency, accountability, and operational efficiency in the NGO sector, all of which are critical for advancing national development.”

The bill, which is in the final stages of the Ministry of Community Development and Social Services' (MDSS) four-stage roadmap, has three remaining steps before it can be presented to Parliament. 

However, Mwilu expressed concerns that the bill may face further delays.

“Our concern is that similar roadmaps have been drawn before, only to see other bills overtake the NGO Bill in priority, despite it being under review for 15 years,” Mwilu stated.

The Council has requested an audience with the Ministry of Justice to discuss the reasons for the continued delays, but no response has been received. 

“We are still waiting for feedback on why this bill has to undergo so many reviews without ever reaching Parliament,” he said.

The Council has urged the government to collaborate with NGOs and civil society to resolve the delays. 

“We need to address the causes of these delays and find ways to move the process forward,” Mwilu added.

In a move to increase pressure on the government, the Council hinted at possible advocacy actions, including peaceful solidarity marches and escalating the issue to the Republican President. 

“We will take necessary steps to ensure this bill is prioritized,” Mwilu warned.

The 2022 NGO Bill aims to streamline NGO operations and improve transparency in the sector. 

“The bill will provide clear guidelines that will ensure accountability and foster public trust in the NGO sector,” Mwilu noted.

The Council stressed that continued delays create legal uncertainty, hindering NGOs' ability to plan and execute projects. 

“The delay in signing the bill creates a legal vacuum, affecting NGOs’ capacity to deliver critical services,” he added.

The Council of NGOs has called on the government to prioritize the signing of the bill, stating that its enactment will reinforce the administration’s commitment to supporting civil society and acknowledging the essential role NGOs play in Zambia’s development.

The NGO sector remains hopeful that the government will address the delays, allowing NGOs to continue their contribution to national progress.

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