The World Bank has expressed strong satisfaction with the implementation and outcomes of the recently concluded Emergency Cash Transfer (ECT) programme.

World Bank Country Senior Social Protection Specialist, Ms. Nadia Salim , said the impact of the ECT has been clearly felt on the ground, citing testimonies from beneficiaries encountered during the World Bank mission.

She made these remarks during a wrap-up meeting with the Ministry of Community Development and Social Services Permanent Secretary, Ms. Angela Kawandami.

Ms. Salim also commended the Social Cash Transfer (SCT) programme, noting its growing reach. She revealed that the programme is expected to expand its coverage from the current 1.3 million to 1.5 million beneficiaries nationwide.

She emphasized that the success and impact of both the Emergency Cash Transfer and the Social Cash Transfer programmes will serve as valuable models for future crisis response efforts.

Meanwhile, Ms. Salim has commended the government through the Ministry for progress made in transitioning to digital payments for the Social Cash Transfer programme, which currently stands at 81 percent.

“That is very impressive, and based on feedback from the Southern Province field visits, it is highly appreciated,” she said.

In response, Permanent Secretary Ms. Angela Kawandami welcomed the World Bank’s feedback and reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to continued collaboration to enhance the impact of social protection programmes for the poor and vulnerable.

She also reiterated that the Ministry remains on track to meet the September deadline for finalizing the social registry, which she described as a key tool in ensuring inclusive and effective social protection service delivery.