Nyasa Rainbow Alliance (NRA), with the support from Arcus Foundation held a board training on 15th January, 2024 at Game Heaven in Blantyre. The objectives of this board training were to define roles and responsibilities of the Board Members, to equip the board with skills in strategic decision making and execution of strategic planning and to develop the organizations board charter and setting long term goals.
Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) play a crucial role in addressing social issues, advocating for change and promoting community well-being. The success of NRA largely depends on the effectiveness of its board members in providing strategic direction, oversight and ensuring compliance with the ethical and legal standards.
In his welcoming remarks, the facilitator of the training, counsel Bob Chinkango emphasized that the board is an important structure of every organization and should be in the forefront to monitor and develop a clear vision of the organization. He added that governance must be there to provide an oversight role in order to make sure that the organization is accountable in delivering results that are aligned with the board’s long-term vision. Recognizing the pivotal role that the board play, comprehensive training programs like such are essential to equip board members with the knowledge and skills needed for effective governance.
In his remarks, FHI360’s Senior Program Officer, Leo Magombo who was also in attendance at the training commended NRA for organizing the trainings as it would help the board members understand NRA’s mission, vision and long-term goals as well as equip them with strategic planning skills to make informed decisions aligned with the organization’s objectives. He added that a good board must ensure open channels between the board and management and develop leadership pipelines which results in NRA’s clear succession plan.
Board Chair, Solumu Mtongolo thanked NRA’s management for organizing this particular training and making sure that its members have a vast experience in corporate governance. He further said NRA is growing fast and should ensure the board members are exposed to updated information at both governance and management levels.
In conclusion, investing in comprehensive NRA board training is an investment in a long-term success and sustainability of the organization. By equipping board members with the necessary skills and knowledge, NRA can enhance their governance practices, build trust with stakeholders and ultimately contribute more effectively to positive social change. Continuous learning and development are essential for ensuring that NRA board members remain adaptive, responsive and capable of navigating the dynamic landscape of the non-profit sector.
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