On May 15th, 2024, the ISSER Hall at the University of Ghana, Legon, buzzed with energy and enthusiasm as the Africa Non-Profit Summit unfolded. Spearheaded by the National Consortium for Voluntary Organisations Ghana (NCVO-Ghana) in partnership with the Partnership Bureau, this summit provided a vibrant platform for networking, learning, and professional growth for individuals and organizations in the non-profit sector. The summit featured a stellar line-up of keynote speakers from prominent organizations such as the Partnership Bureau, the NPO Secretariat of The Republic of Ghana, Kowri, and Nobisfields. These speakers delved into critical topics relevant to the non-profit sector, providing attendees with valuable insights and practical advice.
The summit was particularly timely given the emerging challenges in the non-profit sector. In 2021, the Government of Ghana introduced the mandatory NPO License to promote transparency and build donor confidence within the sector. While this initiative aimed to strengthen the non-profit landscape, over half of the organizations, especially smaller NGOs and community-based groups, have struggled to meet the stringent requirements to obtain this license. This has led to significant operational challenges, affecting their credibility and fundraising efforts. Additionally, beyond licensing issues, non-profit organizations in Ghana and across Africa face substantial barriers to effective collaboration, hindering their ability to achieve maximum collective impact and sustainability.
A highlight of the event was the session on resource mobilization, a crucial topic for non-profit organizations striving to sustain their initiatives. The session was handled with insightful and thought-provoking statements, offering attendees new perspectives on securing and managing resources effectively. Presented by Yawa Hansen-Quao, who captivated the audience with her presentation on the theory of change, a strategic framework essential for non-profits aiming to mobilize recourses and achieve long-term impact. Her unequivocal delivery made complex concepts accessible, leaving participants inspired and equipped to implement these strategies in their organizations.
The summit also addressed practical aspects of non-profit management, such as crowdfunding, tax responsibilities, and proper registration of non-profit organizations. Charles Hansen-Quao of Kowri provided a comprehensive overview of crowdfunding, highlighting innovative approaches to engage supporters and raise funds. A representative from Nobisfields tackled tax responsibilities, offering crucial guidance on navigating the regulatory landscape. Derrick Agyei from the NPO Secretariat of Ghana emphasized the importance of proper registration, ensuring legal compliance, and operational efficiency for non-profits.
The Africa Non-Profit Summit not only equipped participants with essential knowledge but also facilitated meaningful networking opportunities. Attendees had the chance to connect with peers, share experiences, and forge partnerships that could drive their missions forward.
As the summit concluded, it was evident that industry activities like this play a pivotal role in the growth and development of non-profit organizations. By bringing together diverse voices and expertise, such events foster a collaborative environment where learning and innovation thrive. The Africa Non-Profit Summit was more than just an event; it was a catalyst for professional growth and a testament to the power of collaboration in achieving social impact. Among the attendees were two of our team members Mrs. Priscilla Mansa Fynn and Mr Obed Donkor, Programs Director and Head of PR respectively, who represented our foundation with enthusiasm.