Become a Member
Governance & Accountability

Independent. Accountable. Member-Driven.

RAMA's loyalty is to its members and its approved mission, as set out in our Memorandum of Incorporation and governance rules — never to any political party, government or commercial interest.

RAMA governance structure meeting

Built on Transparency and Trust

RAMA is established as a Non-Profit Company (NPC) and is governed by its Memorandum of Incorporation and approved governance rules, which bind every organ of the organisation — from the board to local chapters — to the highest standards of accountability.

Our governance framework ensures that member contributions are protected, decisions are made in the interest of documented African migrants, and every leader is held to a published code of ethics. We publish an annual report, undergo independent audits, and maintain a whistle-blower channel separate from management.

This is not just compliance — it is a promise. When you join RAMA, you become part of an organisation that answers to its members.

The Pillars of Our Governance

Every decision, policy and action at RAMA is anchored in these four principles.

Independence

RAMA is institutionally independent. We accept no funding that compromises our mission, and all commercial and institutional relationships are managed through transparent conflict-of-interest and related-party controls.

Transparency

Our financial records, board decisions and operational reports are open to members and regulators. We publish an annual report available to all.

Accountability

Every leader — from chapter coordinator to board chair — is subject to performance review, conflict-of-interest declarations and recall procedures.

Member-First

Our sole constituency is documented African migrants. Every policy is measured against one question: does it serve our members?

How RAMA is Organised

A clear separation of powers ensures checks and balances at every level of the organisation.

Board of Directors

An independent board with defined terms, fiduciary duties, and a published code of ethics. The board sets strategy, approves budgets, and appoints the executive.

Executive Management

Responsible for day-to-day operations, programme delivery and member services. The executive reports to the board and is subject to annual performance review.

Provincial Chapters — PLANNED

Member-led structures are planned for each province, subject to member uptake and operational capacity. Once operational, elected coordinators will represent local interests and feed member concerns into national policy.

Members' Assembly

The ultimate authority. Members receive annual reports, vote on approved governance matters, and can recall board members through defined procedures.

Ethics & Complaints Committee

An independent committee that handles whistle-blower reports, ethical complaints and governance disputes, separate from management.

Audit & Risk Committee

Oversees financial controls, risk management and the independent annual audit. All members receive a summary of audit findings.

How We Answer to Members

Governance is not just a document — it is a set of lived practices that ensure every member's voice is heard and every rand is accounted for.

Governance by the Numbers

Our commitment to accountability is measurable. Here's how we hold ourselves to the highest standards.

Nonprofit

RAMA's income is applied exclusively to its approved nonprofit objectives — member services, programmes, responsible administration, institutional development and reserves.

Independent

Institutionally independent. We accept no funding that compromises our mission, and manage all commercial and institutional relationships through transparent controls.

Annual

Independent financial audit and published report to all members.

Confidential

Whistle-blower channel accessible to members and staff, handled independently of management.

The Standards We Hold Ourselves To

Every board member, employee and volunteer commits to a published code of ethics that governs their conduct.

Integrity

We act with honesty and integrity in all dealings. We do not misrepresent RAMA, its mission or its finances to members, partners or the public.

Non-Discrimination

RAMA serves all documented African migrants regardless of nationality, ethnicity, gender, religion or political affiliation. Discrimination is grounds for immediate dismissal.

Confidentiality

Member information is treated with the highest confidentiality. We comply fully with POPIA and never share member data without consent or legal obligation.

Anti-Fraud & Corruption

Zero tolerance for fraud, bribery, kickbacks or embezzlement. Any proven case results in dismissal and referral to law enforcement.

Compliance

We comply with all applicable South African laws, including the Companies Act, POPIA, and any future regulations governing non-profit organisations.

Member Duty

Every decision is made with the best interests of our members at heart. We exist to serve them — not the other way around.

Hold Us Accountable

Join RAMA and become part of an organisation that answers to its members. Your voice matters — in governance and beyond.

Become a Member