The Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) has on 22 August 2024 held a crucial stakeholders’ roundtable, focusing on the Grievance Redress Mechanism (GRM) for the Productive Social Safety Nets and Youth Employment (PSSNYE) project. The meeting aimed to address pressing issues affecting the timely and effective delivery of payments and services to project beneficiaries.
Deputy Commissioner of the ACC, Augustine Foday Ngobie, opened the session by reiterating the Commission’s commitment to supporting project reforms, particularly the electronic cash delivery system. He emphasized that this approach aligns with the World Bank’s policy directives and the Government of Sierra Leone’s objectives to enhance transparency and efficiency.
The GRM Project Coordinator, Patrick Morovia, stressed the need to expedite the conclusion of the project’s pilot phase, which has extended beyond its planned timeline. He highlighted the importance of resolving any remaining issues to ensure beneficiaries receive their payments immediately.
Discussions at the roundtable addressed several critical challenges, including access to accurate payment data, reconciliation tools for proof of payment, and the placement of cash-out points to minimize beneficiaries’ costs. An Orange Money, Sierra Leone representative assured stakeholders that efforts are ongoing to resolve these challenges.
Critical issues discussed included:
Missing SIM cards were issued to beneficiaries after the Targeting & Enrolment exercise.
Incorrect beneficiary data in the system, causing delays or missing payments.
Incomplete payments.
Strategic placement of cash-out points to reduce overhead costs for beneficiaries.
Implementation of a robust identification process for beneficiaries.
For effective case management, improved communication on payment delivery to partners, especially the ACC.
Review the contract between NaCSA and Orange SL Ltd. regarding payment delivery to PSSNYE beneficiaries.
Effective management of timesheets and ensuring timely payments.
In his closing remarks, Deputy Commissioner Ngobie thanked all stakeholders for their participation and contributions. He emphasized the importance of ongoing collaboration to ensure the success of the PSSNYE Case Management system.
Credit:Correspondent: Kadija Kabba, SLENA
