By Lulama kaSozathini
Eastern Cape, South Africa – The Department of Social Development has initiated a week-long Non-Profit Organisations (NPO) compliance outreach programme in the Eastern Cape Province, aimed at enhancing the operational effectiveness of local NPOs and ensuring their adherence to regulatory standards.
As part of its developmental mandate, the Department is working to provide direct support to the NPO sector by bringing its services closer to communities. This initiative aligns with the requirements of the Non-Profit Organisations Act (Act No. 71 of 1997, as amended by the General Laws Amendment Act).
The programme, launched this week, seeks to bridge compliance gaps among NPOs, many of which face challenges in meeting registration, reporting, and operational standards stipulated by law. These workshops and on-site support sessions will equip NPOs with tools, knowledge, and resources to maintain good governance, improve transparency, and foster sustainable development in their respective areas of focus.
“Our mission is to strengthen the impact of NPOs by ensuring they are compliant and fully equipped to serve their communities effectively,” stated a spokesperson for the Department. “This outreach demonstrates our commitment to inclusive development by removing barriers that hinder the operations of grassroots organizations.”
The outreach will cover critical areas such as:
- Assisting NPOs with registration: Ensuring organizations are correctly registered under the NPO Act.
- Capacity building: Offering training on compliance documentation and financial reporting.
- Renewals and updates: Guiding existing NPOs on updating their registration details.
- Clarifying regulatory requirements: Educating organizations on their legal obligations and the consequences of non-compliance.
With hundreds of NPOs operating in the Eastern Cape, the outreach is expected to make a significant impact by improving efficiency in service delivery across the province. The Department also hopes the initiative will strengthen trust between NPOs, government, and the communities they serve. The outreach is being held in East London (Amalinda), Mdantsane and eQonce on the 26th – 28th November 2024.
The programme has been praised by local stakeholders, who recognize its potential to empower organizations working in critical areas such as education, health, poverty alleviation, and youth development.
“This outreach is a game-changer for our province,” said one local NPO leader. “It not only helps us understand the legal framework but also connects us to a broader support system that ensures we are better equipped to fulfill our missions.”
The Department of Social Development has encouraged all registered and unregistered NPOs to participate in the programme, emphasizing that compliance is not only a legal necessity but also a cornerstone for organizational sustainability and growth.
For more information or to attend the sessions, NPO representatives are advised to contact their nearest Department of Social Development office.
