Liberia’s journey with social cash transfer programs has evolved significantly over the past decade, driven by both domestic initiatives and international partnerships. These programs aim to alleviate poverty, empower vulnerable populations, and build a sustainable social protection system.
Early Initiatives and Pilot Programs (2009–2016)
Liberia’s engagement with social cash transfers began in 2009, when UNICEF launched an unconditional cash transfer program targeting extremely poor households in Bomi County. This initiative aimed to address food insecurity and provide economic support to labor-constrained families. By 2012, the program had expanded to include Maryland County, both counties being among the most food-insecure regions in the country.
In 2015, the government, in collaboration with the World Bank, introduced the Rapid Social Cash Transfer Ebola Response Project (SCT-REPLI). This emergency program provided unconditional cash transfers to households affected by the Ebola epidemic, aiming to mitigate the socio-economic impacts of the crisis.
Institutionalization and Expansion (2016–2023)
The Liberia Social Safety Nets Project (LSSNP), approved by the World Bank in 2016, marked a significant step toward institutionalizing social protection in Liberia. With a $10 million International Development Association (IDA) credit, the project aimed to provide income support to extremely poor and food-insecure households in counties such as Bomi, Maryland, Grand Kru, and River Gee. Additionally, it sought to establish key components of a national safety net delivery system, including a social registry to identify and manage beneficiaries.
SCT COVID-19
In response to the economic challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, the government, in partnership with the World Bank and the United Kingdom’s Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), launched the Social Cash Transfer – COVID-19 (SCT-COVID) program. Between October 2019 and September 2021, the program extended social safety nets to over 82,000 individuals from 18,000 poor households across urban and rural areas, including Montserrado, Maryland, and Grand Kru counties. The program utilized digital cash transfers via mobile money, with over 70% of recipients being women.
Recent Developments and the REALISE Project (2021–Present)
Building on previous efforts, the government, in collaboration with the World Bank, the Swedish International Development Agency (SIDA), and the French Development Agency (AFD), launched the Recovery of Economic Activity for Liberian Informal Sector Employment (REALISE) Project. This initiative aims to provide income support to 16,000 vulnerable households through the Social Cash Transfer component. The program emphasizes responsible financial management and seeks to empower families over time.
Under the REALISE Project, 2,100 households are receiving cash support in Grand Kru County. In River Gee County, 3,500 households are now benefiting. Similarly, in Rivercess County, the project is serving 2,500 households, and in Grand Bassa County, 7,754 households are benefiting.
Key Achievements and Challenges
Digitalization of Payments: The transition from physical cash to mobile money transfers has enhanced accessibility and reduced logistical challenges.
Gender Inclusivity: Over 70% of cash recipients have been women, highlighting the programs’ focus on gender empowerment.
Sustainability Concerns: Despite progress, challenges remain in ensuring the long-term sustainability and scalability of these programs, particularly in the face of funding constraints and the need for comprehensive policy frameworks.
Liberia’s social cash transfer programs have played a crucial role in providing immediate relief to vulnerable populations. While significant strides have been made, ongoing efforts are essential to build a comprehensive and sustainable social protection system that can effectively address the needs of all Liberians.
Some of the lines used in this article came from the World Bank and UNICEF.
I like the efforts you have put in this, regards for all the great content.
I’m often to blogging and i really appreciate your content. The article has actually peaks my interest. I’m going to bookmark your web site and maintain checking for brand spanking new information.
Pretty! This has been a really wonderful post. Many thanks for providing these details.