Please use this identifier to cite or link to this item: https://hdl.handle.net/10419/311567 
Year of Publication: 
2024
Series/Report no.: 
WIDER Working Paper No. 2024/79
Publisher: 
The United Nations University World Institute for Development Economics Research (UNU-WIDER), Helsinki
Abstract: 
This systematic review examines the effectiveness of social assistance programmes in protecting households in Africa-a region highly vulnerable to climate change, conflict, and other shocks-during periods of crisis. Despite the significant increase in the number of these programmes over the past two decades, the need for emergency aid remains. Our review focuses on quantitative studies using microdata to assess the impact of these programmes on household income, poverty, assets, and food security outcomes during crises. We find that large, predictable, and consistent transfers are effective in protecting households and building resilience, as they enable households to accumulate buffer stocks and better plan for future shocks. However, challenges with timely implementation often hinder their effectiveness. Cash-plus programmes, which integrate consumption support with livelihood interventions, show particular promise in fostering long-term resilience, though the evidence base remains too limited to draw broader conclusions.
Subjects: 
social protection
cash transfers
Africa
systematic review
resilience
JEL: 
O15
H53
Persistent Identifier of the first edition: 
ISBN: 
978-92-9267-542-4
Document Type: 
Working Paper

Files in This Item:
File
Size





Items in EconStor are protected by copyright, with all rights reserved, unless otherwise indicated.