From Abdulrazaq Mungadi, Gombe
Governor Mohammadu Inuwa Yahaya of Gombe State has approved new projects to improve the welfare of 200 communities across the state. The new projects in the areas of Health, Education, Water, Nutrition, and Erosion Control are to be executed through the NG-CARES COVID-19 program of the Gombe State Community and Social Development Agency (CSDA).
This was revealed by the General Manager (GM) of the CSDA Haruna Ahmed Imam while speaking at the commencement of a comprehensive training workshop to enhance the capacity of Community and Group Management Committees of communities selected for the new projects. He explained that the workshop was to equip the committees with the needed skills and knowledge to effectively carry out the project, ensuring its successful implementation and sustainability.
He stated that the NG-CARES program execution commenced with seven communities and expanded to 28, then to 77, and now to 200 communities. He said, “This is a testament to the Gombe State Government’s commitment to bringing succor to the poor and vulnerable as evidenced by the consistent release of funds and support to the Agency”.
The GM added that the goal of the workshop was to empower community members with the tools and expertise needed to take ownership of the project and drive its success. He emphasized the agency’s commitment to fostering community empowerment through collaborative projects.
He stated that it is believed that sustainable change begins at the grassroots level hence by investing in communities and providing them with the necessary tools and knowledge, the government will be laying the foundation for long-term progress.
Meanwhile, the Manager of Finance and Administration of the agency, Ibrahim Abubakar Gwani revealed that the participating communities had sought support for the projects hence, there is a need for them to own the project and execute it judiciously.
He explained that the projects selected encompass various basic amenities tailored towards the needs of the people and also commended the state governor for focusing on the poorest of the poor communities in the state.
He said, “The training workshop was designed to cover a wide range of topics, including project management, resource mobilization, community engagement, and sustainable development practices”.
According to the Public Relations Officer (PRO) of the agency, Comfort Mukollo, before the training, the agency had conducted needs assessments in all the communities as directed by the state governor.
She explained that the CSDA is one of the platforms for the implementation of the NG-CARES program domesticated as GO-CARES in the State.