World Bank supports Adaptive and Productive Social Safety Nets Project in CAR

Bangui, CAR (PANA) - The World Bank has approved a $30 million grant from the International Development Association (IDA) to support the Adaptive and Productive Social Safety Nets Project in the Central African Republic (CAR).

The project intends to scale up social protection for poor and vulnerable families in targeted areas and strengthen the shock-responsiveness of delivery systems, according to the Bank’s announcement on Thursday.

“Boosting social safety nets in CAR is essential to develop its human capital and strengthen the social contract,” said Guido Rurangwa, World Bank’s Country Manager, Central African Republic. “The Adaptive and Productive Social Safety Nets Project will empower the most vulnerable and give them the opportunity for a better health and education, and a better quality of life for their families.”

The project will be implemented in two regions characterised by high levels of poverty and vulnerability to climate change. According to the latest available poverty map, the Kagas and Haut-Oubangui regions have a poverty incidence rate of 78.60 and 84.65 % respectively.

About 45,000 households are expected to receive regular safety net transfers and training to strengthen human capital and help them respond to climate shocks.

The project is expected to increase coverage of safety nets by three to four percent per year during its implementation, which will start in the most accessible communes and communities within the selected prefectures. In doing so, the intervention will contribute to conflict prevention and help stabilise these communities.

-0- PANA AR/MA 24May2024