Global Impact: Celebrating World NGOs Day 2024 and Global Pursuit of Achieving the SDGs
By Musa Abdullahi Sufi
Celebrating the World NGOs Day 2024 on 27th February, is part of commemorate the tireless efforts and invaluable contributions of non-governmental organizations (NGOs) worldwide in advancing social progress, fostering inclusivity, and championing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
World NGO Day is an occasion to celebrate the contributions made by non-governmental organisation (NGO) across the world. The World NGO Day was marked for the first time by the United Nations, the European Union and other international organisations in 2014. The NGOs play a crucial role in addressing global challenges, advocating for human rights and fostering sustainable development.
It was officially proposed and recognised on April 17, 2010 by 12 countries of the Baltic Sea NGO Forum in Vilnius, Lithuania. The member countries of the Baltic Sea NGO Forum were Belarus, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Germany, Iceland, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland, Russia, Norway and Sweden.
The day (World NGO day) was officially proposed and recognized in 2010, but declared in 2012. The day is the brainchild of Latvian-British philanthropist Marcis Skadmanis. The first global inaugural event of World NGO day was hosted by the Ministry for Foreign affairs of Finland on 27 February 2014 in Helsinki, Finland.
This year, under the theme “Building a Sustainable Future: The Role of NGOs in Achieving the SDGs,” organizations and network like Kano Network of NGOs in Kano celebrate the transformative impact of NGOs in creating a better world for all. There is another plan to celebrates the day in Katsina soon.
NGOs play a pivotal role in driving sustainable development by addressing pressing social, economic, and environmental challenges at the grassroots level and advocating for policy change on the global stage. With their innovative approaches, grassroots connections, and unwavering commitment to social justice, NGOs are instrumental in catalyzing positive change and building resilient communities.
At the heart of the SDGs lies the vision of a sustainable future where no one is left behind, and NGOs serve as vital agents of change in realizing this vision. From promoting gender equality and empowering marginalized communities to advocating for environmental conservation and promoting access to education and healthcare, NGOs are at the forefront of the global effort to achieve the SDGs.
One of the defining features of NGOs is their ability to mobilize resources, expertise, and grassroots support to address complex challenges and drive sustainable development outcomes. Through collaborative partnerships with governments, civil society, businesses, and international organizations, NGOs leverage collective action to amplify their impact and create lasting change.
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In commemorating World NGOs Day 2024, it is essential to recognize and celebrate the diversity of NGOs and the invaluable contributions they make across different sectos globaly in shaping a better future for all. This year’s theme also underscores the pivotal role that NGOs play in advancing global progress towards a more equitable and sustainable world. Let me give some more highlights below;
Empowering Communities, Transforming Lives
NGOs serve as catalysts for change, working tirelessly to address pressing social, economic, and environmental challenges at the grassroots level. From promoting access to education and healthcare to advocating for human rights and environmental conservation, NGOs empower communities and transform lives.
Aligning with the Sustainable Development Goals
At the heart of the global development agenda are the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), a universal call to action to end poverty, protect the planet, and ensure prosperity for all by 2030. NGOs are instrumental in driving progress towards the SDGs, leveraging their expertise, networks, and resources to advance each goal.
Addressing Inequality and Promoting Inclusivity
One of the defining features of NGOs is their commitment to inclusivity and social justice. By prioritizing the needs of marginalized and vulnerable populations, NGOs play a critical role in addressing inequality and promoting social cohesion. Through advocacy, capacity-building, and direct service delivery, NGOs strive to leave no one behind in the journey towards sustainable development.
Fostering Collaboration and Innovation
The challenges we face today require collaborative and innovative solutions, and NGOs are at the forefront of driving change through partnership and innovation. By fostering collaboration between governments, businesses, civil society, and local communities, NGOs harness collective action to tackle complex issues such as climate change, gender equality, and access to healthcare.
A Call to Action
As we celebrate World NGOs Day 2024, let us recognize the remarkable impact of NGOs in shaping a more sustainable and equitable world. Let us reaffirm our commitment to supporting NGOs in their vital work and advocating for policies and investments that enable them to thrive. Together, we can build a future where every individual has the opportunity to flourish, and no one is left behind.
Conclusion
It is very necessary to urge all the NGOs to Join the celebration of World NGOs Day with actions and promoting the incredible contributions of NGOs from local to global levels around health, education, empowerment, peace and in general the SDGs and more. Together, let us work towards building a sustainable future for current and future generations. Let’s make every day World NGOs Day with actions to supporting and empowering the needy and those who dedicate their lives to making the world a better place.
Musa Abdullahi Sufi is a Development Journalist, Writes from Kano Nigeria
