Evaluation of the Shock-Responsive Child Sensitive Social Protection Programming (CSSP) in Somalia

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young Somali girl looks out of tent

Two decades of conflict, weak governance, and frequent exposure to weather-related shocks such as droughts, floods, and the COVID-19 pandemic, have left Somalia’s institutions weakened. The country remains fragile, facing institutional challenges, economic instability, and political fragility. Although Somalia receives significant humanitarian assistance in response to these shocks, its current social protection system is fragmented, leaving most of its population vulnerable to shocks.

To strengthen the Government of Somalia’s ability to respond to structural issues and shocks, the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) is implementing the Child Sensitive Social Protection Program (CSSP). CSSP provides a regular cash transfer of $20 a month, and a $40 top-up in times of shocks. The program also provides various "cash plus" services focused on nutrition, health, well-being, and more. CSSP is currently implemented in three districts and is about to expand to two more.

AIR is conducting a timely process and impact evaluation of the CSSP to inform UNICEF, the government, and partners about any lessons learned from early implementation.
 

Contact
Marlous de Milliano headshot
Senior Economist
Garima Siwach
Principal Economist
Paula Dias headshot
Senior Researcher