The Kano State-led Accountability Mechanism (KanSLAM) recently held its end of the year 2024 annual review meeting at Joclarif Hotel, Zaria Kaduna state.
The meeting brought together civil society organizations , journalist and government representatives to evaluate progress, reflect on achievements, and renew commitments to improving health accountability in Kano State.
In his statement Salisu Yusif, KanSLAM’s Public Relations Officer, outlined the meeting’s objectives, which included creating an agenda for 2025 and planning to advocate against the massive retirement of health professionals.
Dr. Nura Haladu, Secretary of KanSLAM, explained the coalition’s purpose.
“KanSLAM is a coalition of Civil Society Organisations, Civil Servants, Journalists, and WDCs advocating for improved service delivery in human capital development sectors.”
“Kano SLAM is Working to improved health outcome for women and children.to promote maternal and child health, family planning, budgetary allocation as well as judicious utilization of allocated funds. ” He said
Dr Nura also Appreciate partners, including Lafiya, Pathfinder International, Alive and Thrive, and Option UK for the Support ,to the SLAM.
In his remarks Mr. Abdulkadir Salisu Kabara, State Team Lead for the Kano FCDO Lafiya program, who commended KanSLAM’s achievements and urged the coalition to address the challenges posed by the imminent retirement of health professionals and education staff.
Kabara highlighted the importance of empowering Ward Development Committees (WDCs) through capacity building.
“The WDCs are closer to the grassroots and have a deeper understanding of community dynamics.
“It is vital that KanSLAM continue to work closely with them to ensure sustainable impact,” he added.
Dr. Musa Mohammed Bello, representing the Community Health and Research Initiative, provided a detailed review of KanSLAM’s 2024 activities, highlighting the implementation of 60% of planned activities.
“The major challenges were the commitment of members and difficulties in engaging key stakeholders,” he explained.
He emphasized the importance of KanSLAM’s participation in the 2025 budget public hearing at the Kano House of Assembly, scheduled for December 12.
Nafissa Murtala Ahmad, Knowledge Management Chair for KanSLAM, emphasized the coalition’s improved communication strategy, supported by Pathfinder International.
“Our website is now active, and we are consistently using social media platforms to engage stakeholders.
“We need timely information from other subcommittees to ensure effective communication and advocacy,” she stressed.
The TIMES HAUSA reported that, the meeting concluded with a renewed commitment to Engage Executive Governor of Kano state,improving health accountability in Kano State and a focus on maternal and child health initiatives for 2025.