During its 40th sitting, Noonu Atoll Council approved new guidelines to provide financial, technical, and other forms of assistance to non-governmental organisations (NGOs). Developed under Article 22(h) and Article 73 of Law No. 7/2010 (Decentralisation Act) and Article 10-1(b)(a) of the Public Finance Act, these guidelines are designed to foster collaboration and empower NGOs in driving community development initiatives.

Key Objectives of the Guidelines

The guidelines aim to:

Establish clear standards for providing assistance to NGOs for implementing development plan projects.
Promote collaboration between the council and international, national, and local NGOs in executing programmes and activities.
Empower NGOs to actively participate in atoll development planning and implementation.

Framework for Implementation

The guidelines outline a structured approach to ensure compliance with government policies and standards. Key highlights include:

Approval Process: Assistance will require majority approval from council members and must align with legal and policy guidelines.
Types of Assistance: Support will include financial aid, technical expertise, and other forms of assistance as defined by the council.
Stakeholder Engagement: The guidelines emphasise collaboration with international organisations, national NGOs, and local community groups.

Commitment to Transparency and Accountability

The council is committed to ensuring transparency and accountability in resource allocation. Measures include:

Transparent processes for distributing assistance.
Regular monitoring and reporting to ensure alignment with development goals.
Proper documentation to maintain compliance with relevant laws.

Expected Outcomes

The implementation of these guidelines is expected to:

Enhance community participation in development initiatives.
Strengthen partnerships between the council and NGOs.
Improve the efficiency and effectiveness of development projects.
Ensure transparent and equitable resource allocation.

These guidelines mark a significant step in empowering NGOs and fostering a collaborative approach to community development. By providing a clear and comprehensive framework, the council reaffirms its commitment to sustainable development and the well-being of the community.