The NGO Quality Assurance Mechanism (QuAM) has been developed for and by non-governmental organisations (NGOs) working in Uganda. It is the result of a participatory process with wide consultations throughout the sector at national and regional levels through meetings, newspaper inserts and electronic means. The QuAM was formally approved at a meeting attended by a cross-section of NGOs in Kampala on 20September 2006.

"NGO Quality Assurance aims at promoting the adherence by Civil Society Organisations to generally acceptable ethical standards and operational norms."

It sets principles and standards of behaviour for responsible practice, to protect the credibility and integrity of certified NGOs and their networks in Uganda.

The QuAM has been specifically developed for what is known in our country as ‘NGOs' and ‘NGO networks.' A network is defined as a network of non-governmental organisations, that is registered with the NGO Board or district authorities, and that brings together other organisations and/or individuals as its members.

Loose coalitions and temporary alliances are not included, although quality standards may apply to their constituent NGOs. A community-based organisation (CBO) or other type of civil society organisation may also seek certification, or use any of the standards that form part of the certification requirements, in any way it sees fit.

It is hoped to develop alternative versions for other civil society organisations, such as CBOs, in due course.

Obtaining an NGO Quality Assurance Certificate is not a legal requirement (contrary to NGO registration) but, once issued, the provisions of a Certificate are binding on the certified NGO.

The QuAM goes beyond any single existent code of conduct (such as those currently operated by networks and other ‘apex' NGOs); it is based on clearly defined Quality Standards and sets out implementation modalities, including sanctions in the case of any breach.

NGO certification is not unique to Uganda and where useful, other experiences have informed its development. The QuAM will be reviewed and amended where necessary, after an initial period of implementation.

Further information on the QuAM, including detailed procedures, can be found in the Implementation Guidelines, and the Quality Standards leaflet, copies of which are available at every District Quality Assurance Certification office, c/o the District NGO Forum or Network.