Corruption in projects
The Himalayan Times
3
November 2014
Corruption in projects
It was not surprising for me to read the
news report “DFID projects creating graft opportunities in Nepal, says study” (THT, Nov 1, page 3). While
contemplating my 25 years of working experience in the donor funded projects,
DFID funded project could be one of them where irregularities have taken place
in-spite of their internal control mechanism. It used to happen in the Swiss
and Canadian funded projects in one way or the other though in varying degrees.
Corruption is fraud and bribery, a serious crime.
In the report submitted by the Independent
Commission for Aid Impact (ICAD) on its finding about DFID funded projects in Nepal, it has used the word “corruption” which I
found quite serious and I would therefore like to say one or two things about
it. Until the community people, the real users of any donor or non-donor funded
projects, are involved from the initial stages of the projects, chances of
taking place “corruption” remain very high. People’s active involvement in each
level of project is a must.
Participatory monitoring of each and every activity
of such project is crucial to ensure maximum transparency in budget expenses.
The involvement of users’ group members in making participatory decision
related to the planning and implementation will create the feeling of ownership.
This will discourage corruption and ensure the successful completion of the
projects benefiting maximum number of targeted communities
Rai Biren Bangdel
Maharajgunj, Kathmandu
