Multipurpose Cash Assistance: Guidance Note for Operationalization in Somalia
Attachments
Download attachment
What is Multipurpose Cash (MPC)
Multipurpose Cash (MPC) is an unconditional, unrestricted, lifesaving, multi-sectoral cash assistance mechanism designed to empower vulnerable or crisis-affected households to meet their urgent basic needs.
What is the Objective of MPC in Somalia
The key objectives of MPC in Somalia are to:
1. Enable vulnerable or crisis-affected households to meet their immediate, urgent basic needs and mitigate protection risk.
2. Serve as an immediate lifesaving or first-line response mechanism.
3. Act as a gap-filling intervention where significant unmet needs persist.
Preconditions for MPC Implementation (Triggers)
The decision to implement Multi-Purpose Cash (MPC) assistance in Somalia is guided by the following key factors:
• Market Accessibility: Somalia has a high prevalence of functional markets. Evidence shows that market actors often follow displaced or affected populations, ensuring sustained access to essential goods and services.
• Market Functionality: MPC is implemented where markets are operational and capable of meeting the demand for essential items without significant price inflation.
• Availability of Financial Service Providers: A robust financial infrastructure is crucial to ensure the timely, safe, and efficient disbursement of cash assistance.
• Mobile Network Coverage: Reliable mobile network coverage is essential to facilitate digital cash transfers and maintain effective communication with beneficiaries.
• Multi-Sectoral Needs Assessment: MPC is prioritized when comprehensive assessments identify urgent needs across at least three humanitarian sectors, ensuring a holistic response to affected populations.
• Operational Capacity of MPC Partners: Implementing partners must have the necessary capacity and operational presence to deliver assistance within 14 days of activation.
• Access to Populations in Need: Successful MPC implementation relies on secure and sustained access to affected populations to deliver assistance effectively.