DFID created a £130 million Governance and Transparency Fund (GTF) to address some of the pressing issues of the society. The fund has been designed to help citizens hold their government to account through strengthening the wide range of groups which can empower and support them.
The ability of citizens to make their voices heard and holds their government on wrong step is fundamental to good government. In absence of such condition, an environment is created in which corruption can flourish and citizens are not able to analyze the decisions of their leaders or make informed choices about who they elect to serve as their representatives.
More than 400 civil societies, media and other organizations throughout the world express interest in the fund when it was announced. After an extensive appraisal process, 38 organizations were selected for funding in 2008. Their activities currently cover an extensive range of governance issues and can be linked to more than 600 local organizations in over 100 countries.
The GTF is increasing the voice of ordinary citizens throughout the world. Governance and Transparency Fund help local organizations as the National Taxpayers Association improve access to education in rural communities by monitoring local government spending on school construction in Kenya. This fund also enables international organizations like Amnesty International, Global Witness and Water Aid to work with several civil society partners on issues concerning natural resource management, human rights and access to basic services for disadvantaged communities.
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