Banjul, 21st May 2025: Across various rural communities in The Gambia, beneficiaries of the NAFA Cash Transfer Programme have expressed unanimous satisfaction with the positive impact the initiative has had on their lives. From individual interviews and group discussions conducted in multiple locations, it is evident that the programme has provided critical financial support and empowered recipients to establish and expand income-generating ventures, improve household welfare, and foster economic resilience.
Beneficiaries widely reported that the initial cash transfer, typically in the amount of 3,000 Gambian Dalasi, served as crucial start-up capital for small-scale businesses. Many recipients used the funds to launch micro-enterprises such as petty trading, vegetable gardening, poultry farming, and artisanal services. Remarkably, these modest investments have grown into thriving multiple-business operations, reflecting a strong entrepreneurial spirit and prudent financial management.
As a result of this financial empowerment, beneficiaries have seen significant improvements in their daily lives. Business growth has directly translated into increased household income, enabling families to meet essential needs such as food, clothing, healthcare, and education. Several respondents noted a marked improvement in their ability to provide consistent meals and school supplies for their children, thus breaking cycles of poverty and dependency.
Moreover, there has been a cultural shift towards sustainability-focused spending. Many participants emphasized the importance of reinvesting profits into their businesses, saving for future needs, and supporting community development initiatives. This mindset is fostering a long-term developmental impact far beyond the scope of the initial cash transfers.
In their testimonials, beneficiaries passionately advocated for the continuation and expansion of the NAFA Cash Transfer Program. They expressed strong hope that similar social protection and livelihood enhancement schemes would be introduced or scaled up to cover more vulnerable populations. Such programs, they believe, are critical to ensuring continued progress in rural economic development and in building resilience against future socio-economic shocks.
Sarjo Nyang , of Gendeh Sandu Misera shared how the programme laid the foundation for her family’s long-term stability.
“Our first benefit from this project came when I called my husband, and we agreed to invest the money in a business that would support our future needs,” she recalled.
“We purchased a horse, a weeding machine, and some livestock. Today, these have grown into three successful, diversified businesses. The returns have improved our household’s well-being, and we are truly grateful to the partners of this important initiative.”
For Ramatoulie Jallow, of Chameng Nyanija, the NAFA project was a first-time opportunity that brought both relief and empowerment.
“This is my first time benefiting from a project of this kind. The cash helped me pay for healthcare for my sick child, which was a great burden lifted,” she said.
“I was also able to save the remaining amount through our women’s monthly Osusu group. My savings are growing steadily, and I finally feel a sense of financial security.”
Other speakers include Kanku Jatta, of Gendeh, Sandu Misera, a widow and mother of eight; Edirisa Ceesay , of Conteh Nyanija District; and Demba Camara, of Gendeh Sandu. They all shared their success stories of how the programme transformed their lives.
The NAFA Cash Transfer Programme has proven to be a powerful tool for poverty alleviation, business growth, and social transformation in rural Gambia. Its success underscores the importance of targeted financial support programs that are inclusive, well-implemented, and aligned with the aspirations of grassroots communities.
By Kumba Leigh
