By CHIDI NKWOPARA
World Bank-assisted Imo State Agency for Community and Social Development Project, CSDP, has disbursed N9,465,525.92 to the first batch of six benefitting communities drawn from the three senatorial zones of the state.

Addressing representatives of the benefitting communities, CSDP General Manager, Comrade O.A.U Amah, explained that the disbursement demonstrated in practical terms the World Bank and state government’s support for community- driven development strategy.

“This community-driven strategy is based on the principles of transparency, accountability, ownership and participatory monitoring and evaluation,” Amah said.

He urged the lucky communities to utilize the funds judiciously for the purposes stated in their development plans, stressing that they must make use of their community implementation manual, community development plans and Community Project Management Committee, CPMC, constitution.

Amah also urged them to take action immediately by implementing and completing their micro projects as identified and prioritized by them, given the fact that the projects are time bound.

Vanguard recalls that those who collected cheques include Dioka Nzerem, Ehime Mbano, N2,176,200; Obi Orodo, Mbaitoli, N2,025,000; Ihitte Ubi, Ahiazu Mbaise, N1,514,736.02; Ozara, Orlu, N940,604.40; and Umuaghobe, Ideato South, N1,433,295.