Beneficiaries celebrate transformative impact of Nafa project

In this bi-monthly Nafa cash transfer under the World Bank project, reporters reached out to beneficiaries in Nianija, Wulli West, and Foni Bintang Districts, who recently received their last cash transfer from the program.

During these interactions, project beneficiaries had the opportunity to share their appreciation for the World Bank, the Gambian government, and all implementing partners for significantly improving their lives through the Nafa program. However, the beneficiaries also urged not only for the renewal of the project but also requested that the World Bank extend its support to include other non-beneficiaries in future initiatives.

The Nafa cash transfer program is part of the Gambia Resilience, Inclusion, Skills, and Equity (RISE) initiative, backed by the World Bank Group in partnership with the Gambian government. It is implemented by the National Nutrition Agency (NaNA) in collaboration with the Department of Community Development (DCD) and the Directorate of Social Welfare (DSW). The project aims to provide a foundation for sustainable livelihoods for the poor and vulnerable populations.

The “Nafa” program, as a sub-component of the RISE project, is being implemented in 20 of the poorest districts in The Gambia. It includes a bi-monthly cash transfer of D3000 and behavioral change activities for approximately 17000 extreme poor households over a period of 36 months.

Speaking to reporters, Ramatoulie Jallow from Chamen in the Nianija District expressed her appreciation for the Nafa project, describing it as a life-changing program. She shared how she was able to venture into animal husbandry with the support of the Nafa program and also used part of the funds to support her household. She praised the World Bank and its partners for making a significant impact on their lives.

Abdoulie Whan, a native of Sare Alpha in the Central River Region-North, also commended the World Bank and the government for changing their lives. He revealed that he currently owns two large rams that could sell for approximately D55,000, all thanks to the Nafa program.

Edrisa Ceesay from Sare Konteh in the Central River Region-North also expressed gratitude to the World Bank and its partners for the transformative project.

Additionally, the media team spoke with other beneficiaries, including Bintanding Njie from Kasange village and Awa Jallow from Bunyandou village in Foni Bintang Karanai, West Coast Region, who all expressed their appreciation for the Bank and its partners for their intervention.