Envoy cautions against limiting NGOs funding

Nairobi; Kenya: British High Commissioner to Kenya, Christian Turner, has cautioned Members of Parliament against making legislation that would inhibit activities of non-governmental organisations (NGOs).

Mr Turner (right) said it is in bad faith to cut NGO foreign funding, saying it would adversely affect marginalised communities who depend on donor aid.

He instead urged MPs to critically look at the benefits brought about by foreign donors in the country.

“The input of NGOs is very important, whether it’s political, educational, health or environment. The designers of that legislation need to be careful not to throw out the baby with the bath water,” he said.

He was speaking in Kibera where he assessed the development projects spearheaded by Shinning Hope for Communities. He however, said there is need to devise effective mechanisms to ensure accountability and transparency.

“You should understand where the money is coming from, who is funding it, who is running it and who benefits from such organisations,” he noted.

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He added: “I strongly support the regulation of the NGO sector to ensure transparency and accountability prevails, however, in doing so we must be careful not to limit the important work done by NGOs.”