The Kano State-led Accountability Mechanism (KanSLAM) recently held its annual review meeting to evaluate its 2024 work plan.
The review meeting, which took place from November 30 to December 1 at Joclarif Hotel, Zaria, brought together civil society organizations and government representatives.
The evaluation was a means for KanSLAM members to reflect on their collective achievements and renew their commitment to improving health accountability in Kano State.
Supported by FCDO Lafiya, it aimed to enhance KanSLAM’s impact in 2025.
Mr. Abdulkadir Kabara, the State Team Lead for the Kano FCDO Lafiya program, commended KanSLAM for its achievements.
“This is a good time to reflect on the progress made, the opportunities missed, and the unfinished tasks of 2024,” Kabara said.
“More importantly, we must strategize on how to recover from those missed opportunities and make necessary amends in 2025,” he emphasized.
Kabara highlighted the importance of empowering Ward Development Committees (WDCs) through capacity transfer.
“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.
He also addressed the challenge posed by the imminent retirement of health and education workers due to service elongation reversals.
Kabara urged proactive advocacy to ensure the government fills the anticipated vacancies.
“Ongoing advocacy and a healthy relationship with government agencies are crucial to achieving our shared goals,” he advised.
Dr. Musa Mohammed Bello, representing the Community Health and Research Initiative,(CHRI) and speaking on behalf of the KanSLAM Co-chair (CSO) provided a detailed review of KanSLAM’s 2024 activities.
“Out of the activities planned for 2024, we have implemented 60%.
“The major challenges were the commitment of members and difficulties in engaging key stakeholders,” he explained.
Dr Bello outlined plans for 2025, which focus on maternal and child health.
“We are looking at engaging the Primary Health Care Management Board, Kano State Contributory Health Care Management Agency, and the Ministry of Health,” he revealed.
He emphasized the importance of KanSLAM’s participation in the 2025 budget public hearing at the Kano House of Assembly, scheduled for December 12.
He added: “It is imperative that we submit our recommendations for the House of Assembly’s consideration.
“This is an opportunity to ensure our priorities are included in the budget to ensure the state’s priorities align with the needs of the people.”
Nafissa Mutla Ahmed, Knowledge Management Chair for KanSLAM, highlighted the coalition’s improved communication strategy.
“With support from Pathfinder International, we now have a communication strategy and revitalized our website and enhanced our visibility.
“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.
She also underscored KanSLAM’s role as a collaborative partner with the government.
“We are partners in progress, not adversaries and our goal is to support the government in achieving development under the health system,” she added.
