By: Haruna Kuyateh
4H the Gambia, a local NGO on Saturday organized a day-long review meeting on policies and procedures aimed at meeting donor’s requirements and responding to national priority areas.
The interface was held in Farafenni of Upper Badibou District.
Gibriel Dem, the National Board Chairman of 4H Gambia described the synergy as important in shaping the organization to be more responsive towards meeting the requirement of donors, guiding policies and procedures set aside by NGO Affairs Agency.
He noted that the review and validation of policies would add more value to the organization in ensuring donors’ funds are utilized on transparent and accountable measures in promoting robust monitoring of project activities.
‘’4H board members believe that an efficient procurement process directly affects the cost and time required for project implementation and ultimate performance of projects for sustainable operations,’’ Mr. Dem emphasized.
For his part, Alieu Ceesay, the National Programme Director of 4H The Gambia, said the policies aimed to improve the standard of living of the rural population, particularly the marginalized and vulnerable youth, women, and children. Also, it aims to maintain and increase economic stability and contribute to the progress and development of its members in schools, clubs, and farming populations in the North Bank and the Central River Region.
He posits that it is evident that environmental impacts and challenges affect rural Gambia, particularly in the North Bank and the Central River Region. These, he continues, include land degradation, deforestation, degradation of landscape, and loss of biodiversity which are worsened by long drought spells, and strong winds, among others.
Director Ceesay thanked the board for the foresight, noting that the development of the right policies and procedures enhances good governance and public accountability.
Other speakers included Lamin Camara, a board member of 4H Gambia who delved into the points: awarding of contracts, developing a good procurement planning system, and promoting the protection of women and girls from all forms of Gender-Based Violence.
He notes that purchasing activities include – obligations to transparent transactions, documentation, fiscal responsibility, confidentiality, donor requirements, and adherence to government regulations and compliance with the 4H The Gambia code of conduct.
