Katsina Gov’t Flags Off N4bn Subsidised Food Scheme

The Katsina State Government has launched the Rumbun Sauki programme, a N4 billion initiative aimed at alleviating economic hardship by providing essential food items at subsidised rates to residents.

Engr. Yakubu Danja, the Special Adviser on Rural Economy to Governor Dikko Radda, unveiled the programme at a press conference, highlighting the state government’s commitment to addressing food affordability challenges. Danja noted that the scheme is designed to provide much-needed relief to residents facing economic pressures.

Under the Rumbun Sauki programme, subsidised shops will be set up across the state, offering food items such as rice, flour, maize flour, and spaghetti at a 10 percent discount. These shops will initially open in seven centres across the Katsina, Daura, and Funtua senatorial zones.

To ensure the initiative caters to different household needs, the commodities will be available in various package sizes, ranging from 1kg to 50kg. This approach is designed to accommodate varying income levels and household requirements.

The programme primarily targets state and local government employees, local education authority staff, and senior citizens aged 60 and above. Beneficiaries must register either online or at designated service providers to ensure transparency and accountability in the process.

One of the key features of the programme is a flexible payment system. Purchases can be made on credit, with repayments deducted directly from beneficiaries’ salaries or pensions. To facilitate the process, beneficiaries will receive customized ATM cards upon registration, which will be used to process transactions.

Initially, beneficiaries will be allowed to make purchases once a month, but the government plans to expand this to four times per month as the programme evolves.

The Rumbun Sauki programme will be gradually extended to all 34 local government areas and, eventually, to every political ward in Katsina State. This phased approach is aimed at ensuring equitable distribution and effective implementation across the state.

Danja emphasized that strict oversight mechanisms have been implemented to ensure the integrity of the programme. Any fraudulent activities will face legal consequences.

He concluded by reaffirming the state government’s commitment to sustaining the initiative, emphasizing that it is more than just a policy but a crucial intervention to improve welfare and ensure food security for residents of Katsina State.