Gender Ministry Commences Payments to LEAP Beneficiary Households
The Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection has announced that payments to eligible Livelihood Empowerment Against Poverty (LEAP) Programme households will start on Monday in phases.
In a press release issued on Monday, the ministry stated that the LEAP programme is the government’s top cash transfer intervention for extremely poor and vulnerable households.
“Government is committed to ensure that LEAP is effectively targeted, transparent and responsive to households that need support the most,” it said.
The Ministry added that the programme would provide regular cash support to eligible households to help meet basic needs, improve household consumption and food security, promote access to health and education, and strengthen the resilience and wellbeing of vulnerable families.
It said that the LEAP beneficiary households undertaken by the Ministry would be reassessed as part of Government’s efforts to strengthen the integrity, effectiveness and fairness of the Programme.
The Ministry noted the exercise was necessary because household circumstances have changed over time and households that have not been covered must be allowed to benefit.
“While some existing beneficiaries continue to require LEAP support, others have experienced improvements in their circumstances and may transition from the Programme,’ it added.
According to the ministry, the government has commenced the enrolment of eligible households towards achieving a national LEAP caseload of 450,000 beneficiary households.
It stated that households found eligible following the reassessment have undergone verification and enrolment to receive their LEAP grants through the approved payment system.
The Ministry disclosed that payments are being made in phases and will take time to reach all beneficiary households and communities nationwide.
“Successfully enrolled people are urged to remain patient as the process runs its course; failure to receive payment at the start of the exercise does not mean a beneficiary has been excluded from the Programme’’ it said.
The press release stated that beneficiaries are reminded that no fee, commission or facilitation charge is required for LEAP enrolment or payment.
“Anyone demanding money or other consideration in connection with this exercise should be reported immediately through the established grievance channels,” it said.
The Ministry noted that some households may have concerns regarding their reassessment outcome, enrolment status or payment.
It has urged beneficiaries and members of the public to contact their Community Focal Person or District Social Welfare Office; important matters requiring further attention may be taken to the LEAP Management Secretariat.
The following toll-free numbers are available for enquiries and grievances: 0800 800 800 and 0800 900 900. The LEAP Management Secretariat may also be reached on 0303 969 399.
According to the Ministry, the public is encouraged to use these official channels to report non-payment, difficulties with enrolment or verification, demands for unauthorised payments, fraud, misconduct or any other concern relating to the Programme.
The Ministry said that the government has acknowledged the patience of beneficiaries during the reassessment and enrolment exercise and acknowledges the cooperation of MMDAs, MPs, traditional and community leaders, development partners, civil society organisations and frontline officers who have supported the process.
“We therefore call on all stakeholders to support the Ministry to protect the integrity of LEAP and ensure that social protection reaches those who need it most,” it stated.
Faithful Amah, ISD
