National Forum of People’s Organisations (NFPO) was established as a network organisation in 1991 to support the development of a robust civil society in Sri Lanka with the objectives of experimenting with innovative development alternatives and facilitating its partner organisations to successfully carry out their activities. Today, NFPO has a project execution arm that runs both innovative and income generating projects as well as a strong network or partners and members which is supported and developed through a wide range of activities.

Vision:
Most influential and innovative NGO Network in development alternatives

Mission:
A highly motivated and competent team of professionals providing quality services and eco-friendly technology options whilst meeting the stakeholder values.

How we work
Mahagedara (Ancestral Home)... The ancestral home plays an important role in Sri Lankan culture. Inherited by the youngest brother, it remains open to all family members. Whenever the family arrives, the youngest brother is there to welcome and look after everyone. This is how NPFO views its work. Owned by one and open to all. Resources are shared and decisions are made jointly.

Focus Areas
After many years of focus on innovation in environment, economic development and institutional capacity building, NFPO and its network are now moving towards advocacy and rights based approach in their work.

Registration
NFPO is registered under the Volunteer Social Service Organisation Act as Nuge/swe/san/1/93

Mr. Willie Gamage was born in the deep south of Sri Lanka to a farming family and struggled to be accepted into university. Joining in 1967 he faced considerable difficulties while completing his studies at Sri Jayawaredenapura University in Colombo. During his university years he was actively involved in the student movements and political protests of the late 1960s.

After University, Willie moved more into the mainstream and joined the co-operative movement in Hambantota. After that he accepted a post as researcher with the Marga institute in 1979. In 1986 he joined the Development Innovation and Networks (IRED) as the Asia Programme Coordinator and Country Animator for Sri Lanka.
With the networking experience gained through these positions, he established NFPO in 1991.
Since 1996 he has also been part time Country Director for EcoSolidar.

After the presidential election in November 2005, Willie accepted a government post and now has an advisory role at NFPO.

He can be contacted care of NFPO.