The Kaduna State government has partnered with the Gates Foundation by signing the Kaduna Mutual Accountability Framework (KaMAF), aimed at enhancing strategic cooperation, transparency, and sustainable progress within the state.
This agreement was formalized during the United Nations General Assembly in New York, symbolizing a mutual commitment to advancing sustainable development through focused initiatives and reinforced collaboration.
According to a joint statement from Ibraheem Musa, the chief press secretary to the Kaduna State Governor, and Fatima Abubakar Alkali, senior communications officer at the Gates Foundation, the framework serves as a voluntary strategic platform designed to foster dialogue and accountability between the parties.
They emphasized that KaMAF is intended purely as a collaborative guide and does not impose any legally binding obligations or financial liabilities on either side.
The framework aligns the development goals of both Kaduna State and the Gates Foundation to maximize impact. It builds upon the foundation laid by the Kaduna State International Development Cooperation Framework (2017-2020) and introduces innovative approaches for strategic discussions, measurable commitments, and citizen-focused monitoring.
Key sectors targeted by the framework include healthcare, agriculture, data governance, pragmatic budgeting, and economic empowerment initiatives.
Senator Uba Sani, Governor of Kaduna State, hailed the framework as a crucial milestone in realizing the state’s development ambitions. He highlighted that KaMAF marks a decisive move from mere commitments to tangible outcomes.
Governor Sani stated, “KaMAF signifies a transformative shift from promises to actionable results. By embedding accountability, transparency, and alignment with the needs of our citizens, Kaduna is paving the way for a more inclusive, resilient, and thriving future. We are honored to collaborate with the Gates Foundation to deliver impactful, measurable improvements across our communities.”
Representatives from the Gates Foundation reiterated their dedication to Kaduna State through sustained investments and expert support.
Uche Amaonwu, the Foundation’s Nigeria country director, remarked, “Our engagement in Kaduna is rooted in a shared vision of inclusive, accountable, and data-informed development. Our commitment extends beyond systems to empowering individuals, communities, and institutions that drive lasting transformation.”
KaMAF will steer the partnership over the next two years (2025-2026), featuring regular Strategic Dialogues and a Joint Steering Committee tasked with monitoring progress, addressing challenges, and ensuring long-term sustainability.
Through this collaboration, Kaduna State and the Gates Foundation aspire to establish a benchmark for impactful state-donor partnerships in Nigeria and beyond by harmonizing resources, enhancing accountability, and prioritizing citizen involvement throughout the process.