The term NGDO encompasses a multitude of organisations, with a wide variety of themes, visions, values and goals, meaning their actions are very diverse. But they all share a common aim: change, social transformation, and respect for human rights.
A lot of efforts are needed to make sure the work carried out by NGDOs with their local partners (civil society organisations, academic and research institutions, governments, etc.) is effective and has a measurable impact in terms of improving living conditions for people in the areas in which they operate.
One of the efforts that certainly needs to be made is to coordinate work by exchanging information and documentation on issues of common interest, establishing alliances, collaborations and dynamic platforms to promote effective dialogue between all types of organisations that work together, with the aim of improving provision of basic social services for the population.
The 2nd Fair for NGDOs Working in Health in Maputo, held in Maputo on the 6th December 2013, was a example of this effort. Organised by the NAIMA+ Network, made up of 38 international NGDOs who work in health in Mozambique, it was the second consecutive year this event has been held. On the one hand, the fair promotes awareness among key players in the sector and the general public regarding NGDOs’ contribution to achieving the health objectives laid out by the government to fulfil the Millennium Development Goals. On the other hand, it was an excellent opportunity to exchange experiences, establish alliances and coordinate our work to enhance the success of our actions.
Taking this initiative as a positive and inspiring example, we cannot ignore the fact that more than 100 international NGOs (as well as national NGOs) work in the Mozambique health sector, yet there were just 28 at the Fair. This shows the long road still ahead of us to achieve efficient cooperation and coordination between all players in the sector.
At medicusmundi we will continue striving for us all to work “as one” and with one goal: to construct a solid, universal healthcare system that responds to the real needs of the Mozambican people.
Begoña Hermida Val
Representative of medicusmundi in Mozambique
Translation from Spanish by stoodleyamy via trommons.org
