N4.2B Palliatives to SMEs, Vulnerable Persons in Kaduna OGP Harps On Transparency

N4.2B Palliatives to SMEs, Vulnerable Persons in Kaduna OGP Harps On Transparency

 

 

 

By: Femi Mustapha

 

The Technical Working Group (TWG) on Strengthening Social Protection System of the Open Government Partnership (OGP), Kaduna  State has called for transparent processes in the planned distribution of  4.2 billion worth of palliatives to 4,200 SMEs and other identified Vulnerable Persons/Groups in the state announced by  Governor Uba Sani.

 

This was contained in a position paper signed by Dr Alao Eric, Joy Gadani Chairman and  Secretary Ad-hoc Committee on Drafting the Position Paper, SAP respectively, and Sumayya Abdullahi Hussaini, CS Co-Chair,  TWG on Strengthening Social Protection Systems, and made available to the media in Kaduna yesterday.

 

The statement stated that there is a need for the identification of target beneficiaries, sectors, and gender in the distribution of palliative relief which includes public disclosure of beneficiary lists and distribution schedules.

 

The TWG also requested the inclusion of accountability mechanisms working on social protection in the implementation committee to ensure that palliative distribution is conducted fairly, equitably, and accountable.

 

“This includes accountability in the disbursement approach, persons to collaborate and clearly stated roles to ensure a seamless process.

 

We request that partners be responsible and accountable to ensure transparency. We request a mechanism for monitoring and evaluation of the disbursement process.

 

“We advocate for an update of the Social Register of the State Operations Coordinating Unit (SOCU) to ensure that the right population benefits: with adequate gender inclusion, inclusion of Persons with Disabilities (PWDs), and indigent members of the state.

 

“If there is an existing list of SMEs in the state, we pray that this list be updated to ensure that enterprises that are no longer in existence are taken out to make room for existing potential beneficiaries.

 

“We call for establishing a real-time feedback mechanism to allow beneficiaries to report grievances, provide feedback, and seek redress for any issues encountered during the identification, selection and distribution process.

 

“This can be achieved through the creation of a platform or an app, (like the Eyes and Ears App), whereby citizens can track implementation, and send complaints or other feedback on the programme. If this is done, the platform can be used as a sustainability tool for subsequent government intervention programmes.

 

“This will go a long way in fostering inclusion, transparency, accountability, and responsiveness in aid delivery.

 

“Transparency in palliative distribution is essential to uphold principles of fairness, equity, and accountability, thereby improving the economic and financial stability of citizens in the state.

 

“These milestones from the social protection commitment, including tracking and disseminating government/partners’ spending on Social Protection programs, and monitoring social protection programs and interventions for inclusion, transparency, and accountability, serve as guiding pillars for our advocacy.

 

“By collaborating to address our concerns and prayers outlined in this position paper, we aim to ensure that interventions reach their intended beneficiaries, thereby fostering public trust in the governance of the state and advancing the well-being of our citizens.”