In emergency settings, multipurpose cash interventions can play a crucial role in addressing the immediate needs of crisis-affected populations. For instance, in the aftermath of the devastating 2019 earthquake in Albania, SDC launched the Emergency Cash Pilot for families affected by earthquake in Bubq, Albania. In collaboration with the Swiss Embassy's Bashkti tё Forta (BtF) project, implemented through Helvetas, this project started 7-10 days after the emergency. SDC's unique position as a government agency with strong connections and its own Swiss Humanitarian Aid Unit's rapid response team enabled swift action.

The project targeted 340 households across eight villages in Bubq, Kruja Municipality. Each household received ALL 11,200 (CHF 100) per person for two months (max. ALL 67,200 (CHF 600) for larger households) to cover their basic needs (including preparing for the winter months, improving temporary shelters or renting other accommodation) after the natural disaster, disbursed through Western Union.

An external evaluation confirmed the relevance and effectiveness of the project in meeting the immediate needs of the earthquake-affected population. SDC demonstrated the feasibility of initiating CVA within the critical 7-10 days, leveraging its experience and strong partnerships with the Swiss Embassy and BtF staff.

Despite challenges such as rapid targeting and limited market assessment, the project demonstrated SDC's commitment to transparent communication and operational efficiency, and emphasised the importance of strategic partnerships and expertise in delivering timely and effective humanitarian aid.

External Evaluation of SDC/HA Emergency Cash Pilot For Earthquake Affected Households in Bubq, Albania

Multipurpose Cash

Related content

Multipurpose Cash for Recovery: Locally-led Humanitarian Action in Guatemala