Setting the Pulse for the Conference | 15th NGO Directors Summer Retreat

The 15th NGO Directors Summer Retreat brought together Zimbabwe’s civil society leaders for two days of reflection, dialogue, and strategy under the theme “Navigating New Frontiers: Development Financing and Civic Space in Transition.”

The opening address was delivered by NANGO Board Chairperson, Mrs. Pester Siraha, who set the tone by reflecting on:

1. Shifts in the civic space and regulatory environment, including the PVO Amendment Act of 2025
2. Emerging trends in development financing and donor priorities
3. Challenges posed by restrictive legislation and shrinking civic space
4. The need for CSOs to be agile, innovative, collaborative, and united

The Retreat provided a platform for leaders to share lessons, strengthen partnerships, and chart a course for a resilient, future-ready civil society.

🤝 Thanks to our partners & sponsors for making this gathering possible: EU Delegation to Zimbabwe, Friedrich Naumann Foundation, Accountability Lab, Diakonia, Stanbic Bank Unayo, First Mutual Health, Siyaka, Transparency International Zimbabwe, Sightsavers, Zimbabwe Institute, Bulawayo Vendors and Traders Association, Women’s Coalition of Zimbabwe, Solika Consulting, Crowe, Civic Advisory Hub, National Association of Youth Organisations, and Zimbabwe Human Rights Association (ZimRights).

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Thank you | Tatenda | Siyabonga | Asante Sana