Barely a month after PDA had called on the Ebonyi State Government to donate relief materials to the citizens to help them cope with the adverse effects of the COVID-19, the State Government has responded positively with relief materials distributed to citizens. The exercise was done in 11 LGAs of the State, and lasted between July 25 and July 28, 2020. Meanwhile, a convenient date for distribution in 2 remaining LGAs is yet to be determined. On the whole, the exercise was generally peaceful.
It will be recalled that PDA had distributed relief materials to 108 persons across Abakaliki and Afikpo LGAs between June 24 and June 26, 2020, and in her keynote address during the opening ceremony, the Chief Executive Officer of PDA, called on the State Government to commence the distribution of relief materials.
This shows that the Government has a listening ear and can respond positively when her attention is called to issues.
The COVID-19 relief packages included:
- Rice
- Noodles
- Groundnut oil
- Maggi
- Granulated sugar
- Tomatoes
As the impacts of COVID 19 continue to eat deeper into the fabric of the economy, needless to say, vulnerable groups will continue to suffer. PDA calls on the State Government to develop a better and more transparent list of vulnerable groups and communities, including the development of a digital register that will enable the speedy distribution of relief materials, the identification of new vulnerable groups and individuals. Technology is key in ensuring transparency and accountability in the development of a viable state-led policy on social protection during times of shock. PDA also calls on the government to ensure the effective participation of credible civic groups as third-party monitors in order to ensure that materials reach their intended target and that wastage due to corruption is reduced to an absolute minimum. PDA stands ready to assist.