A new World Bank report, “Realizing the Full Potential of Social Safety Nets in Africa”, notes the rapid expansion and evolution of social safety net programs in Sub-Saharan Africa, seen by governments as part of the strategy to reduce poverty and creating economic opportunities for poor and vulnerable people. For social safety nets to reach their full potential, the report highlights the importance of bringing social safety nets to scale in a sustainable fashion. The report recommends a strong focus on political dynamics, institutional structures, and fiscal sustainability to scale up and sustain social safety nets.
At this morning seminar, Aline Coudouel, Lead Economist in Social Protection and Jobs Global Practice, co-authors of the report, presented its main findings via videoconference from the World Bank headquarters in Washington DC.
Speakers
Aline Coudouel
Lead Economist in Social Protection and Jobs Global Practice, World Bank
Presentation material: Realizing the Full Potential of Social Safety Nets in Africa (PDF)