Minister Witonze Challenges NGOs to Embrace Patriotism and Accountability

The Government has committed to reviewing previously suspended Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs), with a view to allowing those that have resolved their outstanding compliance issues to resume operations.

The commitment was announced during a Quarterly Dialogue Meeting between the Ministry of Internal Affairs, Government Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs), and leaders of NGOs.

The meeting was chaired by the Senior Minister of Internal Affairs, Hon. Ephraim Kamuntu, and attended by the State Minister for Internal Affairs, Hon. Juma Witonze Kisekka.

Government to Review Suspended NGOs

In his remarks, Minister Witonze Kisekka said the Government remained committed to constructive engagement with civil society organisations.

He emphasised that NGOs play an important role in national development but must operate within Uganda’s legal and regulatory framework.

Witonze stressed the importance of patriotism, respect for Uganda’s sovereignty, accountability and compliance with national laws.

He noted that NGOs should remain genuine partners in national development rather than instruments for advancing external interests.

Two-Week Review Process

The meeting resolved that the National Bureau for NGOs should individually review organisations whose operations were previously suspended.

The Bureau is expected to facilitate the reopening of organisations that have addressed their outstanding compliance issues within two weeks.

The process is intended to establish which organisations have fulfilled the requirements necessary to resume their activities.

This provides an opportunity for affected NGOs to resolve outstanding regulatory concerns and return to their work.

Government Calls for Constructive Engagement

Witonze also highlighted the need for stronger cooperation between Government and civil society.

He said Government should provide clear regulatory guidance and a predictable operating environment for NGOs.

He emphasised that constructive engagement would help strengthen accountability while enabling organisations to contribute meaningfully to Uganda’s development.

The dialogue forms part of ongoing efforts to improve relations between Government and NGOs while ensuring that their operations align with national laws and priorities.