They say talk is cheap, but when it comes to the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation, they walk the talk. Through their unwavering commitment to localization, SDC is taking decisive steps to empower local civil society organizations (CSOs). Their latest initiative funds a consortium of four national NGOs—CATAI, LABDI, RIA, and YIPDI—to implement the transformative 30-month PACT-LAB project in Borno State.
The Grand Bargain: A Commitment to Localizing Aid
The Grand Bargain, launched at the 2016 World Humanitarian Summit (WHS) in Istanbul, is a groundbreaking commitment to improving aid efficiency and effectiveness. With 63 signatories—including 25 donor states, 11 UN agencies, and 22 NGOs—this initiative aims to channel more resources directly to people in need, particularly by strengthening local and national responders.
One of its core commitments is to support multi-year investments in the institutional capacities of local actors, ensuring they are well-equipped for preparedness, response, and coordination in fragile contexts. This is especially crucial in regions affected by armed conflict, climate change, and recurring crises.
SDC’s Investment in Local CSOs Through PLRCAP
As part of its localization strategy, SDC supported the PLRCAP NGOHUB initiative, a bold step toward strengthening national NGOs working in humanitarian settings. PLRCAP provides:
✅ Targeted technical capacity-building
✅ Mentorship and partnership opportunities
✅ Sustainable organizational development strategies
Through expert-led learning approaches, PLRCAP equips local organizations with the tools needed to navigate complex humanitarian challenges, ensuring long-term sustainability.
