Malawi NGO Regulator Sets March Deadline for 2024 Audit Reports
The regulatory body warned of serious consequences for non-compliance.
LILONGWE, Malawi — Malawi's Non-Governmental Organisation Regulatory Authority (NGORA) announced Tuesday that NGOs have until March 31, 2025, to submit their 2024 audit reports for registration and license renewal, writes Ireen Kayira.
The deadline extension aims to boost compliance with Malawi's NGO Amendment Act of 2022 and existing NGO policies, according to NGORA Chief Executive Officer Edward Chileka Banda.
"According to the law, NGOs must be registered with NGORA and hold a valid license to operate legally," Banda said during a press briefing in Lilongwe.
"A valid license serves as proof that an NGO has fulfilled its reporting obligations."
NGORA plans to publish a comprehensive list of compliant NGOs authorized to operate in Malawi in 2025.
The announcement follows concerning compliance rates revealed in the authority's 2023 sector report, which showed only 432 of 706 active NGOs submitted required documentation in the 2022-2023 financial year — a 61% compliance rate.
Banda expressed particular concern over reports of resource mismanagement. "We see NGOs as key partners in advancing Malawi's development. However, they must operate within the legal framework by registering and reporting their activities," he said.
The regulatory body warned of serious consequences for non-compliance.
"NGOs that fail to meet legal requirements will not be allowed to operate and will be considered non-existent," Banda said, adding that NGORA may pursue legal action against organizations that fail to meet the requirements.
The early announcement is intended to give organizations ample time to prepare their documentation.
"That's why we are issuing this notice early. NGOs must register and submit their reports to obtain valid licenses," Banda explained.
NGORA emphasized that while they aim to support the NGO sector's role in national development, transparency and accountability remain paramount.
The authority plans to enforce regulations that stipulate penalties for non-compliance while maintaining its focus on ensuring legal operation rather than punitive measures.