The Source of Wisdom Network Foundation has launched the maiden community based non-governmental organisation (NGO) awards, in Accra.

The award to be held on March 4, 2016, is on the theme:"Celebrating and recognising the contribution of NGOs in the development of Ghana".

Mr Osman Ahmed, Chief Executive officer of Source of Wisdom Network, said NGOs both local and international have played key roles in transforming Ghana to a middle income status.

He said there is, therefore, the need for a resolute effort to celebrate and reward NGOs industry players that have braced the challenge and are achieving its main objectives across the country.

"The NGO awards will therefore seek to celebrate and recognise hard work, innovation and exceptional achievement in terms of main objectives and we are bringing together commercial, community, corporate and individual NGOs to network and celebrate in a conducive environment," he said.

He said the categories of the award scheme would include overall best NGO of the year, best commercial NGO, best community NGO, corporate NGO of the year and philanthropist of the year.

He said special recognition would also be given to NGO founder of the year, overall excellence female NGO founder and overall excellence male NGO founder of the year.

Mr Ahmed announced that the areas for selection cut across all sectors of the economy including education, sanitation, sports, religious activities and human rights.

"The selection involves submission of an online applications on www.sowngh.org or www.allabout-africa.com demonstrating the best main objectives achieved," he explained.

Nana Odupon Okomfo Abeka Sikafo II, National President of Greater Accra Traditional Priests and Priestesses Council, commended Source of Wisdom Network for instituting the award scheme.

He said many NGOs are helping in the development of the country and such awards would provide the needed motivation for them to do more.

He appealed to individuals who have been blessed with money to always strive to help the needy in society.