The Non-Governmental Organizations Regulatory Authority (NGORA) has announced that about 965 non-governmental organizations (NGOs) in Malawi are at risk of deregistration for failing to meet the necessary requirements to operate in the country.
During a media briefing in Lilongwe on Tuesday, NGORA Chief Executive Officer Edward Chileka Banda stated that out of 1,132 NGOs, only 167 have been licensed so far. Banda emphasized that the Authority has set a deadline of March 1, 2025, for all NGOs to complete their registration and submit reports on their activities.
“According to the law, NGOs can only operate in Malawi if they are registered with NGORA and have obtained a license, which is issued after reporting their activities. Therefore, the deadline for these processes is March 1, 2025,” said Banda.
Moreover, Banda warned that any unauthorized NGOs that continue to operate past the deadline will face legal action. He defended the requirement for NGO registration, stating that it promotes transparency and accountability in the management of resources intended for the Malawian population.
In 2024, at least 649 NGO provided reports indicating that K734 billion was mobilized and utilized by these organizations.
