New policy guidelines for NGOs soon -Adda

Accra, Jan. 28, GNA- Mr Joseph Kofi Adda, Minister-designate for Manpower, Youth and Development, on Friday, said a bill that would define new policy guidelines for the operations of non-governmental organisations (NGOs) is being considered and would soon be put before Parliament.

He said the bill was expected to clearly identify the problems associated with the operations of NGOs and make modifications to facilitate their activities.

Mr Adda was speaking when he took his turn at the vetting of ministerial nominees in Parliament.

He said the operations of some NGOs should be scrutinised, since information reaching him indicate that some of them are only "portfolio NGOs and use the support they get to enrich themselves".

"Some NGOs do not even have offices to operate from. Others claim to be involved in direct service delivery, and another the charity oriented, so there is the need to streamline their operations."

Mr Adda said the Manpower Ministry "has been relegated to the background even though it is an important one".

Meanwhile, Nana Kwadwo Seinti, Brong-Ahafo Regional Minister-designate, who lasted for only ten minutes before the Committee was asked how he acquired a pick up, which was auctioned by the Ministry of Food and Agriculture (MOFA).

He told the Committee that he bought the car for seven million cedis as follow up to a request he made earlier for means of transport.

He denied that he was using front men to bid for tenders for his private ventures.