Sierra Leone Orders Seven NGOs to Halt Operations Over Registration Breaches

FREETOWN, Sierra Leone — Sierra Leone has ordered seven non-governmental organizations to immediately suspend their operations after a government review found they had failed to comply with mandatory registration and operational requirements, the Ministry of Planning and Economic Development (MoPED) announced.

In a statement issued on July 6, 2026, the ministry said a comprehensive assessment of the NGO sector identified organizations operating in breach of the country’s National NGO Policy Framework, with several failing to maintain a verifiable office within Sierra Leone—a key condition for registration and continued operation.

“As custodians of public trust and resources, it is imperative that NGOs adhere to the prescribed requirements to fulfil their missions effectively while ensuring that resources are judiciously used,” the ministry said.

The ministry said the directive is intended to strengthen accountability and improve regulatory oversight rather than undermine the role of civil society organizations. It described the measure as “a proactive step towards enhancing the integrity of the NGO sector, thereby fostering greater public confidence and trust.”

The statement was signed by Acting Development Secretary Usman C. Conteh.

The enforcement action forms part of the government’s implementation of the National NGO Policy Framework (2023–2028), which establishes the legal and administrative requirements governing the registration, monitoring and regulation of NGOs operating in Sierra Leone. Under the framework, organizations are required to maintain a registered office, undergo periodic inspections, submit annual reports and comply with other regulatory obligations.

It is not immediately clear whether the affected organizations intend to challenge the government’s directive or take corrective measures to regain compliance and resume operations.

The organizations affected by the directive are Paida Foundation, Activate Hope Sierra Leone, Women’s Association for National Development, Stitching Wango Sierra Leone, Fama Women’s Programme, Hakeen and Hakeema Charity Organisation, and Assembly of God Development Agency.