Zimpapers Logo

From Tawanda Mangoma in CHIREDZI
Non-governmental organisations in Chiredzi have been warned against taking part in political activities and focus on the tenets of their contractual agreements. The call comes after some NGOs have reportedly started engaging in suspected regime change agendas by side lining district officers and offering their services directly to the communities.

Government banned NGOs such as Care International from Masvingo province in 2012 for politicking.

Addressing participants during the NGO Forum held in Chiredzi recently, District Administrator Mr Lovemore Chisema said all NGOs were free to operate in the district if they remained within the confines of their agreements.

“We don’t want a situation where NGO’s come from Harare, bypass the district office and go straight to the village,” he said. “What will you be hiding? Why do you shun Government departments if you are genuinely doing what is outlined in your Memorandum of Understanding?”

Mr Chisema said as Zimbabwe prepared for elections, NGOs should not be found on the wrong side of the law.

“Leave politics to the politicians,” he said. “We are preparing for elections set for next year and you must not be found on the wrong side of the law. Stick to the confines of your MOU. You must be apolitical to remain relevant and acceptable.”

Mr Chisema said Government wanted NGOs to operate in a coordinated manner for efficient and effective service delivery.

“When we say you must work closely with line ministries, our goal is to have equitable delivery of your services across the district,” he said.

“We don’t want duplication and concentration of activities in one area when certain areas are in dire need of your help.”

Mr Chisema NGOs to invest in sustainable projects, which help communities in the long run, rather than just focusing on the distribution of food aid.