31st January, 2012
AMREF has been named among the top 100 non-governmental organisations in the world. AMREF was ranked 81st out of an initial long list of 1,000 NGOs assessed by the Global Journal, an international publication concerned with global governance issues and players.
The organisations, from all fields of operation, were evaluated on a set of criteria that included innovation, effectiveness, impact and sustainability. They were further assessed on transparency and accountability, strategic and financial management, as well as efficiency and value for money. The nominees were also subjected to reviews by peer organisations.
The 2012 Top 100 Best NGOs is the first such international ranking that seeks to recognise the significant role of NGOs as influential agents of global change.
“From humanitarian relief to the environment, public health to education, microfinance to intellectual property, NGOs are increasingly at the forefront of developments shaping the lives of millions of people around the world,” noted Deputy Editor Alexis Kalagas. The list, he added, would “no doubt stimulate debate, while providing academics, diplomats, policymakers, international organisations and the private sector an insight into the ever changing dynamics and innovative approaches of the non-profit world and its leading actors”.
The Global Journal, he said, had sought to move beyond outdated notions of what NGOs are about. “The cliché of faith or service-based organisations from rich countries selflessly dedicating themselves to the relief and betterment of the world’s impoverished and downtrodden is just that – a tired stereotype – if it were ever true at all.” Many local NGOs, he said, are showing their better-resourced counterparts how to work effectively, sustainably, and in true partnership with the communities they serve.
AMREF Director General Dr Teguest Guerma was delighted with the recognition. “We are very pleased to have been selected among the top 100 NGOs in this inaugural survey by the Global Journal,” she said, adding: “AMREF meets all the criteria listed. Our work is innovative and sustainable, and it has a real and lasting impact on communities in Africa.”
She noted that the Global Journal’s recognition of AMREF’s transparency and accountability, efficient use of funds and sound management will increase donor confidence in the organisation’s capacity and competence.
The ranking will also strengthen AMREF’s position as the leading NGO in Africa. “AMREF will use this position to help strengthen other NGOs working in health in Africa so that they can work more efficiently to achieve lasting health change in African communities,” said Dr Guerma.
