The Kaduna State Government has signed a framework agreement with the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation to enhance collaboration and drive sustainable development in key sectors. The Kaduna Mutual Accountability Framework, known as KaMAF, was signed on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly in New York. This non-binding agreement aims to strengthen accountability and performance in driving Kaduna’s development agenda, focusing on areas such as healthcare, agriculture, public finance, and economic resilience.
According to Governor Uba Sani, who signed the agreement on behalf of the state, KaMAF represents a significant shift from “promises to delivery” and underscores the government’s commitment to prioritizing citizen needs while promoting transparency and inclusivity. The framework builds on the Kaduna State International Development Cooperation Framework, introducing more robust mechanisms for strategic dialogue and collaboration.
In the healthcare sector, KaMAF seeks to strengthen primary health systems, improve maternal and child health outcomes, and enhance disease prevention and response. In agriculture, the emphasis will be on promoting sustainable practices, boosting farmer productivity, and ensuring food security through technology and improved market access. The framework also aims to establish robust data systems to support evidence-based decision-making and promote transparent budgeting processes.
The partnership between the Kaduna State Government and the Gates Foundation is expected to set a benchmark for subnational governments in Nigeria on leveraging international partnerships to deliver inclusive growth and measurable results. Uche Amaonwu, Country Director of the Gates Foundation in Nigeria, noted that the partnership underscores a shared vision for inclusive and data-driven development, with a focus on investing in people, communities, and institutions that support sustainable change.
The agreement is expected to have a significant impact on the lives of citizens in Kaduna State, with a focus on driving real, measurable change in critical sectors. With the signing of KaMAF, the state government and the Gates Foundation have reaffirmed their commitment to working together to achieve sustainable development and improve the well-being of citizens. The implementation of the framework will be closely watched, as it has the potential to serve as a model for other subnational governments in Nigeria and beyond.
