Implementing Comprehensive HIV/STI Programmes with Sex Workers Implementing Comprehensive HIV/STI Programmes with | Page 188
6 Programme Management and Organizational Capacity-building
6.7.1 Governance
Good governance means the responsible management of an organization’s strategic vision and
resources. Transparency, accountability, effective management and rule of law are essential
components of good governance and of an organization’s ability to meet its mandate. Organizational
assessments help organizations ensure the following, which are considered best practices in
governance:
• clear vision and mission to drive the organization
• organizational structure that aligns with mission
• strong and active governing body (board) that helps guide and advocate
• participatory selection process for governing body and leadership
• defined processes for decision-making that engage and inform the membership
• community involvement in committees to oversee programmes.
It is important for an organization to have a clear vision. There are often many internal and external
pressures on an organization to address issues that may not be within its real area of concern, and
the vision allows it to stay focused on what it has identified as its core mission.
A board gives strategic direction, provides support in legal affairs, accounting, etc. and protects
the organization. In the case of sex worker organizations, a board may include members with the
connections and influence to advocate to reduce the stigmatization that sex workers face. A board
may also help with fundraising. The size of a board is less important than the commitment of its
members; they should be chosen based on their demonstrated commitment to the organization’s
cause and to helping to establish and grow the organization.
6.7.2 Project management
An organization’s agenda is accomplished through concrete activities, often developed as programmes
and projects. An organization is on the right track if it:
• develops and follows realistic workplans and budgets that are in line with its vision and mission
• defines technical interventions that are in line with local and international best practices
• ensures that its programmes and projects are responsive to the needs of its members.
Well-managed, technically sound projects and programmes not only ensure that organizational
objectives are achieved, but also instil confidence in donors and key stakeholders about the
competence of the organization.
6.7.3 Resource mobilization
Organizations should always be engaged in resource mobilization to fund efforts on a long-term basis.
It is important that the organization be strategic and look beyond the short term, especially if it is
currently benefitting from a grant that will end after several years. While there is no guarantee that
an organization will be able to raise money, there are best practices that may help an organization do
so. Important issues to consider with respect to resource mobilization include:
• Is the resource mobilization strategy in line with the organization’s vision and mission?
• Can resources be raised from members of the organization, i.e. through a small monthly or annual
166