As the world marks World NGO Day, global attention is turning to the evolving role of non-governmental organisations in a rapidly shifting funding and development landscape.
With tightening donor funding, changing global priorities, and increasing demand for accountability and measurable impact, NGOs are being called to rethink how they finance, deliver, and sustain development initiatives.The Chairman of The Global NGO Stakeholders Summit, Mr. Tuva Adams Tuva, says the day is particularly significant in the current context.
“World NGO Day matters now more than ever because the development ecosystem is changing. NGOs must move from reliance on traditional funding models to more sustainable, partnership-driven approaches that prioritise long-term impact,” he noted.
He emphasised that the future of NGOs will depend on diversification of funding, innovation, and stronger collaboration with governments and the private sector.
He added that partnerships are essential, with NGOs providing grassroots accountability, governments offering policy direction, and the private sector bringing innovation and scalable solutions.
World NGO Day Founder, Mārcis Liors Skadmanis, also underscored the broader significance of the day, noting that it is no longer just a symbolic observance.
“Today, World NGO Day is more than a celebration, it is a moment for organisations, partners, and stakeholders to come together, collaborate, and strengthen the sustainability of the sector,” he said.
Mr. Tuva further highlighted the growing role of youth and technology in shaping the future of development, pointing out that innovation is enhancing transparency, project tracking, and real-time impact measurement, while positioning Kenya as a regional hub for development dialogue.
He concluded that platforms such as the Global NGO Stakeholders Summit are critical at this turning point, providing a high-level space for NGOs, governments, development partners, and the private sector to move beyond dialogue into practical collaboration, sustainable partnerships, and solutions that will shape the future of NGOs and the development of Africa.
