The National Association of Non Governmental Organisations (NANGO) deplores the suspension of Community Tolerance Reconciliation and Development (Cotrad) and Zimbabwe Association of Churches and Hospitals (ZACH) by Masvingo District Administrator.
NANGO said it read with amusement of the position taken by Masvingo District in a letter addressed to ZACH and Cotrad, where the District Administrator barred the organisations from holding any activities pending an investigation. This development is regrettable considering the contribution these organisations are making to the district. We feel that these organisations are being victimised for the wrongs that are not clear.
NANGO has written to the District to schedule an appointment to deliberate on the matter in view of finding a better solution that will not jeopardise development within the district. NANGO will promptly update constituents on the outcome of this meeting.
Cotrad, a member of NANGO, is a trust registered with the Ministry of Justice, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs. The youth oriented organisation was formed by a group of former student activists striving to promote informed and positive participation of youths and reintegrate youth victims of political violence into the mainstream society. It values respect for human rights and the desire to have Zimbabwe youth participating in the build up to sustainable justice, freedom, peace, development, democracy, rule of law and security of all persons.
ZACH is a non-profit making membership based association formally registered in 1974. It is registered under the Private Voluntary Organisations Act (Chapter 17:05). ZACH consists of 126 members country wide covering hospitals and clinics. The association links Head of Christian Denominations, the Ministry of Health and Child Care and health providers and other agencies.
NANGO is the officially recognised coordinating body of NGOs operating in Zimbabwe. It is the largest umbrella body for non-governmental organisations and was established in 1962. It is a non-partisan, non-profit making organisation and non-denominational coordinating body of NGOs in Zimbabwe. It is mandated by its membership to coordinate the activities of NGOs, represent the NGO sector and strengthen the voice of NGOs in Zimbabwe.