CSOs Urged to Track Budget Transparency in Balaka District

The Non-Governmental Organizations Coalition on Child Rights is calling on Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) in Balaka district to take an active role in monitoring budget transparency at the district council.

This push emphasizes the importance of transparency for development activities.

During a training session funded by the European Union and the Government of Ireland through UNICEF, Henry Machemba, National Coordinator for the NGO Coalition on Child Rights, highlighted the need for CSOs to effectively track and monitor budgets, particularly in areas impacting child rights and welfare.

The training aims to equip CSOs with essential skills to ensure transparency and accountability.

Charles Sinetre, vice chairperson of Balaka CSOs, echoed the sentiment, describing the training as timely.

This initiative is crucial in promoting participatory budgeting, a concept successfully implemented in other regions, such as Senegal, where it has increased citizen participation in local public finances.

By taking a proactive role in tracking budget transparency, CSOs can contribute to more effective management of local government resources and ensure that development activities align with community needs.