The Ministry of Home Affairs has disbursed over MVR2.2 million in funding to non-governmental organisations as part of the government’s efforts to develop and empower civil society organisations.
The funds were handed over to 13 NGOs by Minister of Youth and Sports, Iruthishaam Adam at a ceremony held at Dharubaaruge Sunday night. Each NGO was provided funding in the range of MVR100,000 to MVR200,000, the ministry said.
128 organisations submitted proposals for government funding but only 13 met the eligibility criteria, according to the ministry.
Speaking at the ceremony, Minister Iruthishaam said “the government is fulfilling its pledge to support and empower civil society organisations, adding that the money would help NGOs to further expand their work for the benefit local communities. She also noted that the Youth Ministry had in the past three years provided MVR2.1 million for various activities conducted by civil society organisations.
Speaking at the ceremony, Home Minister Azleen Ahmed highlighted the difficulties faced by NGOs due to a lack of funds, and expressed hope that the government’s support would help them to be more active.
On Monday, the Home Ministry also held a ceremony to sign documents to disburse the funds.