The Government of Uganda has reaffirmed the importance of patriotism, respect for national sovereignty, accountability and compliance with national laws in the operations of Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs).

Speaking during the Quarterly Dialogue Meeting between the Ministry of Internal Affairs, Government Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs), and NGO leaders, the Minister of State for Internal Affairs, Juma Witonze Kisekka, emphasised that NGOs should operate as genuine partners in Uganda’s national development.

Kisekka, who attended the meeting chaired by the Minister of Internal Affairs, Prof. Ephraim Kamuntu, noted that NGOs should uphold Uganda’s sovereignty and avoid becoming instruments for advancing external interests.

He also underscored the importance of constructive engagement between Government and civil society organisations, highlighting the need for clear regulatory guidance and a predictable operating environment to enable NGOs to undertake their activities within the law.

The meeting also addressed the status of organisations whose operations had been suspended by the National Bureau for NGOs.

It was resolved that the Bureau would review each affected organisation individually and facilitate the reopening of those whose outstanding issues had been resolved within a period of two weeks.

The resolution follows Government's earlier directive to the NGO Bureau to handle suspended organisations on a case-by-case basis and establish clear pathways for resolving outstanding compliance concerns.

The quarterly dialogue provides a platform for Government and civil society leaders to discuss regulatory issues, strengthen cooperation and address challenges affecting the NGO sector.