Nyanzi to revise NGO funding Bill after criticism

Kampala. Youth activist and entrepreneur Nyanzi Martin Luther has announced plans to amend his proposed NGO Funding Bill before it is formally submitted to Parliament, following criticism and concerns raised by sections of Uganda's civil society sector.

In a statement shared on social media, Nyanzi said the draft legislation would be reviewed and renamed to better reflect the interests of civil society organisations.

"We shall first amend it and also rename it to favour the civil society organisations, then our leader from my constituency will submit the petition to the Clerk's office as the proceedings are with my signatures as required," he wrote.

The proposed legislation, which seeks to establish a National NGO Fund to support community-based and non-governmental organisations operating in Uganda, has generated debate since it was first publicised earlier this year.

Supporters argue that many local organisations remain heavily dependent on foreign donors whose priorities can shift over time, leaving community programmes vulnerable to funding cuts. They contend that a government-backed funding mechanism would help improve sustainability and strengthen service delivery at the grassroots.

However, critics have questioned whether direct State involvement in NGO financing could affect the independence of civil society organisations. Others have called for wider consultations before any legislation affecting the sector is considered by Parliament.

Nyanzi's latest announcement appears to signal a willingness to address some of those concerns ahead of the petition's formal presentation.

The activist, who has recently attracted public attention over his parliamentary petition on NGO financing, did not disclose the specific amendments being considered. It also remains unclear whether consultations have already begun with civil society leaders and other stakeholders.

The proposed amendments come at a time when discussions about the regulation, accountability and financing of non-governmental organisations continue to feature prominently in Uganda's governance debate.

Civil society organisations play a significant role in delivering services in areas such as health, education, governance, humanitarian relief and youth empowerment. Many rely on external funding from development partners and international donors.

Observers say any proposal seeking to alter the financing framework for NGOs is likely to attract close scrutiny from both government and civil society actors.

Parliament has yet to receive the revised petition, but Nyanzi's latest remarks suggest that the proposal's proponents are seeking broader support before taking the matter to the House.

Should the revised draft be submitted, lawmakers will be expected to examine whether the proposed National NGO Fund can address funding challenges facing local organisations while safeguarding the independence and operational autonomy of the civil society sector.

The planned amendments are likely to shape the next phase of a debate that has already drawn attention from activists, governance experts and community organisations across the country.