By Kumba Leigh
The Nafa Cash Transfer, a flagship component of The Gambia’s Resilience, Inclusion, Skills, and Equity (RISE) Project, has received high commendation from the World Bank for its exceptional performance and far-reaching impact. As the initiative wraps up in the three piloted districts (Foni Bintang, Nianija and Wuli West), in the Lower River Region (LRR), it continues to deliver meaningful and measurable improvements in the lives of vulnerable households.
Designed to strengthen social protection and promote inclusive growth, the Nafa Cash Transfer has played a crucial role in enhancing food security, supporting livelihoods, and fostering community economic resilience. Beneficiaries have reported sustained improvements in income stability, access to basic services, and overall well-being.
The programme, implemented by the National Nutrition Agency (NaNA), the Department of Community Development, and the Directorate of Social Welfare, enhances economic and educational outcomes in rural districts.
The World Bank’s recognition underscores the Nafa programme’s effectiveness as a model for targeted cash assistance, highlighting its potential for replication in other regions facing similar socio-economic challenges.
In a recent interview, World Bank officials expressed strong satisfaction with the Resilience, Inclusion, Skills, and Equity (RISE) Project, describing it as a cornerstone of The Gambia’s progress in social protection and poverty alleviation.
Building on a Strong Foundation
Anne Hilger, Co-Task Team Leader of the World Bank RISE Project, highlighted that the initiative builds on the achievements of the earlier Gambia Social Safety Net Project. “This project is geared towards driving sustained growth among the country’s most vulnerable populations,” she said, noting that over the past five years, the World Bank has witnessed significant investments in social protection that are visibly improving the lives of beneficiaries.
Hilger emphasised the importance of the project’s robust monitoring and evaluation component, enabling stakeholders to effectively track the impact of their interventions. “About 70% of the cash transfers are spent on food consumption, while the remaining 30% goes into productive investments such as small livestock, agriculture, children’s education, and healthcare,” she explained.
She further revealed that the project has already reached 20 of The Gambia’s 43 districts, with plans underway to expand coverage to 10 additional rural districts. “We are committed to supporting similar programmes in collaboration with the Government of The Gambia,” Hilger affirmed.
A strategic presence in The Gambia
Franklin Mutahakana, World Bank Resident Representative in The Gambia, shared insights into the institution’s evolving strategy. “The World Bank Group has made a joint decision to establish a permanent presence in The Gambia to enable a more integrated and effective approach to development,” he said. “The Gambia was among the first countries to be included in the initial cohort of joint representations, and a second cohort has since commenced.”
Mutahakana stressed the importance of social protection in the Bank’s broader poverty reduction agenda. “Testimonies from beneficiaries, most of whom are: women, demonstrate that these cash transfer programs are making a real difference. Many have used the funds to launch businesses and support their families.”
He commended the Government of The Gambia for its commitment to critical reforms aimed at poverty alleviation, economic growth, and private sector development. “The Bank is also supporting efforts in the energy sector—an essential driver of development. We’ve helped establish the 23-megawatt solar plant in Jamburr and are working on a 50-megawatt public-private partnership project in Soma, among other initiatives,” he added.
Local Voices Echo Support
Anta Taal, Project Coordinator of the RISE Project at the Central Project Coordinating Unit under the Ministry of Finance, emphasised the importance of project site visits by stakeholders. “It is vital for partners to witness first-hand the progress and challenges on the ground, as reports often do not capture the full reality of implementation,” she stated.
Malang N. Fofana, Executive Director of NaNA and National Coordinator of the RISE Project, echoed similar sentiments, reinforcing the need for direct engagement in order to fully appreciate the project’s impact at the community level.
Beneficiaries across rural Gambia unanimously agree that the programme has positively impacted their lives. They encourage sustainability-focused spending and express hope for similar initiatives in the future to ensure continued progress.
With stories of transformation like these, the Nafa Cash Transfer is not only alleviating poverty but also building resilience, empowering communities, and setting the foundation for a brighter future
