The National Association of Non-Governmental Organisations (NANGO) proudly announces the return of its flagship event, the NGO Expo and Winter School, set to take place from July 25-27, 2024, at the Zimbabwe International Book Fair, Harare Gardens. This year’s event is hosted under the compelling theme: “Amplifying the Role, Impact, and Contribution of NGOs towards Inclusive and Sustainable Development in Zimbabwe.”
The NANGO Northern Region Winter School will run concurrently with the NGO Expo from July 25-27, 2024, at the Zimbabwe International Book Fair in Harare Gardens. This platform offers NGOs the opportunity to amplify their roles, impact, and contributions while identifying gaps and opportunities for joint advocacy and collaboration with other key stakeholders. It also allows exhibitors to engage with the public, promoting a better understanding of local needs and fostering an environment of mutual learning and capacity building. The event is expected to attract over 50 NGOs in the Northern Region and several other stakeholders, including the private sector, Independent Commissions, and government departments. The Northern Region covers Mashonaland East, Mashonaland Central, Mashonaland West, and Harare Metropolitan.
The NGO EXPO and Winter School is more than just an event; it is a transformative opportunity to reshape public perception and showcase the significant contributions of Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) in Zimbabwe. NGOs across the region will gather to interface directly with key stakeholders, including government officials, donors, and the public. This platform is essential for NGOs to foster meaningful connections, build trust, and amplify their voices in the face of increasing scrutiny and misinformation.
At the EXPO, NGOs will present their innovative projects and community impacts through various mediums, including presentations, demonstrations, and interactive displays. Attendees will have the chance to witness firsthand the diverse roles NGOs play in society, ranging from grassroots development initiatives to policy advocacy and humanitarian relief efforts. This is an unparalleled opportunity to engage with the dynamic work being carried out by NGOs and to understand the profound impact these organizations have on communities across Zimbabwe.
In recent years, NGOs have been the target of misinformation and disinformation campaigns aimed at discrediting their efforts. The NGO EXPO provides a crucial space for NGOs to address and counter these falsehoods by presenting evidence-based narratives. Through interactive and engaging displays, NGOs will debunk myths, clarify their mission, and demonstrate their positive contributions to society. This initiative is vital for promoting accurate information about the role and impact of CSOs and for dispelling the misconceptions that have clouded public perception.
In the context of a shrinking civic space, the NGO EXPO serves as a platform for NGOs to assert their legitimacy, share success stories, and advocate for an enabling environment that supports their work. By highlighting their contributions to inclusive and sustainable development, NGOs can advocate for policies and practices that protect and promote the space in which they operate. This aspect of the EXPO underscores the importance of a vibrant and active civil society in fostering democratic governance and social progress.
One of the key objectives of the NGO EXPO is to facilitate meaningful connections between NGOs, stakeholders, and the public. By bringing together a diverse array of participants, the EXPO creates an environment conducive to collaboration and partnership-building. These interactions are essential for NGOs to build trust, secure support, and work collectively towards common goals. The event will feature networking sessions, panel discussions, and collaborative workshops designed to enhance engagement and foster lasting relationships.
Join Us in Celebrating Transformative Work
By attending the NANGO Northern Region NGO EXPO and Winter School 2024, you contribute to an empowered civil society, resilient communities, and a thriving Zimbabwe. Your participation supports the narrative shift, showcasing the indispensable role of NGOs in driving inclusive and sustainable development. This event offers a unique opportunity to engage with the impactful work of NGOs and to be part of a collective effort to advance social progress and development.
The event has been cleared by the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) for security purposes, ensuring a safe and engaging experience for all attendees. We invite media practitioners and the public to join us in celebrating the transformative work of NGOs and exploring the dynamic landscape of civil society in Zimbabwe. This event promises to be a vibrant and informative event that highlights the essential contributions of NGOs to national development.
Contact Information:
For media inquiries, please contact our communications department at info@nangozim.org or +263 783 074 241.
NANGO is a coalition of Non-Governmental Organisations in Zimbabwe, dedicated to creating a conducive environment for NGOs to operate effectively and contribute to national development. NANGO provides a platform for collective action and advocacy, amplifying the voices of its members and promoting sustainable development. Through its efforts, NANGO aims to empower civil society and foster resilient communities that thrive in a democratic and inclusive Zimbabwe.
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