2023 Corruption case: DRC
October 2023
What happened
During a monitoring visit in DRC a local partner’s GBV project in April 2022, it was discovered that the amount in cash given to beneficiaries was lower than the amount agreed in the approved project document and budget. The amount was supposed to be $100 per beneficiary, but in some cases an amount as low as $35 was given. During the visit, the partner was asked to provide an explanation. For NCA the explanation given was not satisfactory.
What we did:
The complete list of cash distributions was requested from the partner and received by the NCA. After verification, it was confirmed that the number of beneficiaries had been increased, due to greater need than initially assumed. As a result, the partner reduced the amount awarded to each beneficiary. Verification of the distribution lists also confirmed that the entire budget amount had been allocated. Norwegian Church Aid considered this explanation and the underlying documentation to be sufficient, and that there had been no fraud or irregularities.
What we learned:
NCA was reminded again that we need to have a strong presence at cash distribution sites when cash distributions are given. A stronger presence at this cash distribution might have avoided this becoming an investigation case at all. Also, NCA presence will give a reciprocal impression of safety and correctness for all the parties involved, avoiding any misunderstandings.