VANGO seeks formal recognition and support from Government

Apr 8, 2025 | News | 0

Shirley Abraham, Chief Executive Officer of VANGO

The Vanuatu Association of Non-Governmental Organisations (VANGO), the umbrella body representing all NGOs and Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) operating in Vanuatu, is calling on the government to formally recognise and support its efforts.

Shirley Abraham, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of VANGO, discussed the organisation’s ongoing push for a formal mechanism that would allow for proper acknowledgement and collaboration with the government. “We want to find a way forward to discuss what mechanisms can be used to ensure our work is recognised in national reports,” she said.

Mrs. Abraham pointed out that unlike other national institutions such as the Vanuatu Christian Council (VCC), Vanuatu Chamber of Commerce and Industry (VCCI), and the Malvatumauri Council of Chiefs, which receive government funding, VANGO does not benefit from direct financial support. “You don’t see funding coming from the government to VANGO to help us carry out our work,” she said.

Despite the lack of domestic support, Abraham acknowledged the contributions of international NGOs affiliated with VANGO, such as Save the Children, which often mobilise global resources during times of disaster and work in close coordination with the government to assist communities on the ground.

VANGO is advocating for a formalised partnership agreement with the government. “Right now, there is no formal recognition,” Abraham said. “But if the government recognises VANGO, we can establish a structured partnership to better serve the people.”

Dr Willie Tokon, CEO of Transparency International Vanuatu and current Chairman of VANGO’s Board of Directors, echoed these sentiments. He revealed that VANGO had recently submitted a request for government assistance after a Department of Strategic Policy, Planning & Aid Coordination (DSPPAC) officer attended one of their meetings. The request seeks support for capacity-building initiatives and broader organisational development.

“Although we work directly with communities and act as the voice of the people, we are still not financially supported,” Dr Tokon said. “VANGO must remain independent and function as a watchdog. While the government may assist with small initiatives like meetings or national mapping exercises, more sustainable support is needed.”

Johnson Simon, a representative from the Ministry of Internal Affairs (MoIA) under the Corporate Division, which oversees the NGO compliance and policy desk, acknowledged the issue. He explained that the government is currently streamlining its projects, with funding often routed directly to line ministries. In some cases, NGOs like Save the Children receive direct support.

“Maybe later on, the government can respond to VANGO and other NGOs and help with funding,” Simon said.

He added that while some NGOs, such as the VCC, receive government assistance for specific sectors like religious services, broader support for the NGO sector may come in the future.

Simon acknowledged that the government’s overarching aim is aligned with the National Sustainable Development Plan (NSDP) 2030, which calls for inclusive development under the slogan “Leave No One Behind.” He assured that while the process may take time, efforts are underway to create mechanisms that allow for stronger collaboration between the government and NGOs.

“It’s not something that can happen overnight, but we are working slowly and steadily toward achieving it,” Simon said.

SOURCE: VANUATU DAILY POST

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