Independent Verification
Within the last decade, increasing demand for accountability and value for money has unearthed the need for more results-focused funding of donor- funded programmes in developing countries. This shift towards results-based financing has popularised the use of independent verification mechanisms (mostly for output-based aid schemes) to enhance performance of contractors and minimise or completely eliminate chances of funds misappropriation and misuse. Although laudable and proven to enhance performance and quality of service delivery,
independent verification mechanisms are often fraught with challenges: delays in programme implementation due to due to a lack of qualified agents; delays in disbursements due to complex verification protocols and methodology; conflicts arising from a lack of clarity in methodology and non- inclusive processes; lack of reliable data; lack of capacity and independence of verification agent; manipulation of results as a result of service provider or other political influence and so on. All of these serve to muddy up an otherwise
SEISMIC helps funding entities, governments and other stakeholders surmount the challenges associated with independent verification, by bringing capabilities (including technical sector expertise, strong reporting capacity and other competencies), contextual (working in rural and poor communities) and development sector experience, cross cultural literacy and credibility needed to ensure truly independent, rigorous, timely and reliable verification across multiple sectors and contexts.
SEISMIC's IVA services include:
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Third-party counter verification
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Value for Money Audit (VFM)
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Independent financial audits
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Quality assurance
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Sustainability assessment
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Performance & outputs verification
In addition to carrying out independent verification, SEISMIC invests in strengthening the data collection, reporting capacity and other internal control systems of service providers and implementing agencies, pro-bono, in other to minimise deficiencies in the entire process.