By The Respondent Reporter, Dodoma
The Deputy Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Community Development, Gender, Women and Special Groups, Ms Felister Mdemu, has called on non-governmental organisations (NGOs) to intensify their efforts in delivering services to communities as part of their core responsibilities.
Ms. Mdemu made the remarks in Dodoma on July 31, 2025, while officiating a meeting that brought together representatives from various NGO networks across the country.
She said NGOs play a vital role in reaching communities at the grassroots level and addressing key social challenges, urging them to ensure their projects are impactful and aligned with the needs of the people.
“We urge NGOs to continue providing services to the community because they serve as an extended arm of the government. The government, on its part, will continue to create an enabling environment for them to operate effectively,” she said.
Ms. Mdemu also underscored the importance of civic education ahead of the 2025 General Election, urging NGOs to promote peace, patriotism and active citizen participation in electing leaders who are committed to national development.
“NGO networks are present in nearly all areas of the country and implement diverse mandates. It is important that they help instill a spirit of peace and national unity among citizens as they prepare to vote for leaders who will bring positive change,” she added.
On her part, the Registrar of NGOs, Ms Vickness Mayao, said the meeting aimed to review the performance of NGOs in preparation for the Annual NGO Forum, which will be held in Dodoma from August 11 to 13, 2025.
Meanwhile, Mr Charles Lwabulala, Public Relations Officer at the Iringa Civil Society Organization, commended the Registrar’s Office for improving service delivery through digital platforms, noting that the move has reduced operational costs and saved time.