Ms Christine Churcher, Ghana's Minister for Basic, Secondary and Girl-Child Education, on Saturday urged non-governmental organisations (NGOs) to be mindful of their operations so that they would not put the country's pride and sovereignty into disrepute.

"It is true we need NGOs, both local and foreign to supplement our efforts, however, this must not be allowed to happen at the expense of our national pride and sovereignty."

Ms Churcher, who was speaking at the launch of Agyapomaa Societal Needs International (ASONEED), an NGO, said it is sad to note that some of them operating in the country have not deemed it necessary to register properly with the relevant authorities.

This, she said, makes it extremely difficult for supervisory agencies to monitor their activities and programmes.

Ms Churcher said another problem is that there are too many NGOs doing virtually the same thing and are not expanding their scope of activities.

"The lack of geographic spread to other parts of the country has also been a matter of concern."

She praised the founder for her dedication and love for mankind saying that the time has come for NGOs and the government to adopt a more holistic approach in the effort to improve the lot of the rural dwellers.

Madam Akosua Agyapomaa, a farmer at Nkoranza in the Brong Ahafo region, founded ASONEED.

ASONEED would train and encourage disabled and destitute to engage in profitable ventures and create awareness on the need to protect and provide for the aged, among other things.

The 70-year-old woman did not have any formal education but worked as a matron for a while before entering into active farming.

Mrs. Susana Des-Bordes, Chairperson, Board of Directors of ASONEED, stressed the need for Ghanaians to redefine their actions and inaction towards the aged and the environment.

Dasebre (Dr) Nana Oti Boateng, New Juabenhene, and member of the ASONEED Board of Directors pledged their support and assistance to achieve the goals of the organisation.