The Ministry of Planning and Economic Development (MoPED) has announced the immediate suspension of the operations of seven Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) found to be operating in violation of the country’s established regulatory requirements.
The announcement was made in a Press Release issued on July 6, 2026, following what the Ministry described as a comprehensive review of the operational landscape of NGOs across Sierra Leone.
According to the Ministry, the review revealed that several organizations were operating without fully complying with the standards outlined in the national NGO policy framework. Among the key requirements highlighted is the obligation for every registered NGO to maintain an identifiable office within Sierra Leone.
The Ministry stated that compliance with those regulations is essential to ensuring accountability, transparency and the effective use of resources entrusted to NGOs for development purposes.
“As custodians of public trust and resources, it is imperative that NGOs adhere to the prescribed requirements to fulfil their missions effectively while ensuring that resources are judiciously used,” the statement noted.
Based on the findings, the Ministry directed the following organizations to cease operations with immediate effect:
- Paida Foundation
- Activate Hope Sierra Leone
- Women’s Association for National Development
- Stichting Wango Sierra Leone
- Fama Women’s Programme
- Hakeen and Hakeema Charity Organisation
- Assembly of God Development Agency
The Ministry emphasized that the enforcement action is intended to strengthen regulatory compliance within the NGO sector and ensure that organizations operate in accordance with national laws and policy guidelines.
Officials further clarified that the decision should not be interpreted as an attempt to discourage or undermine the important contributions made by NGOs to Sierra Leone’s development.
Instead, the Ministry described the move as a proactive measure aimed at enhancing the integrity of the NGO sector, promoting greater accountability and reinforcing public confidence in organizations operating throughout the country.
The press release was signed by Usman C. Conteh, Acting Development Secretary at the Ministry of Planning and Economic Development.
