Groups create hashtag to monitor Kaduna health spending

Two nongovernment groups have launched Twitter hashtag #OPENKDSMOH where the public can follow how Kaduna state appropriates and spends funding on routine immunisation. The groups—Community Health and Research Initiative (CHR) and the Kaduna State Accountability Mechanism for Maternal, Newborn and Child Health (KADMAM)—say #OPENKDSMOH (open Kaduna state ministry of health) will provide opportunity for citizens […]

Two nongovernment groups have launched Twitter hashtag #OPENKDSMOH where the public can follow how Kaduna state appropriates and spends funding on routine immunisation.

The groups—Community Health and Research Initiative (CHR) and the Kaduna State Accountability Mechanism for Maternal, Newborn and Child Health (KADMAM)—say #OPENKDSMOH (open Kaduna state ministry of health) will provide opportunity for citizens to access important information about health care services in Kaduna and question issues about their health and government provisions.

“The key role of the social media as a tool for public to hold the government accountable on its health promises to the citizens,” said Dr Aminu Magashi, CHR project director, at the launch of #OPENKDSMOH in Kaduna.

He called on all stakeholders, the media and the public to make good use of the platform to demand for their health right and for sustainable immunization financing in the state.

“We as advocates for adequate funding for Routine Immunization programs and the entire child and family health issues in Nigeria will not stop until our top government officials see the need to own and strengthen accountability and transparency in funds are budgeted, released, disbursed and spent, especially in health,” Magashi said.