Feasibility Study on Cash and Voucher Assistance in Amhara and Gambella regions of Ethiopia

The feasibility study was conducted in the regions of Amhara and Gambella evaluating the different enabling parameters (preconditions) as to understand the suitability of CVA in relation to protection, education, MHM and livelihood outcomes.

Objective of the study

To assess the feasibility of the use of CVA modality to meet the emergency needs with respect to Food security, Protection, Education and Livelihoods of the affected communities in Amhara (Northern Crisis) and Gambella regions of Ethiopia.

Specific objectives

• Analyse the acceptability of cash and voucher assistance by the communities.
• Assess the functionality of markets in three communities, physical and financial access to the market.
• Analyse current and possible livelihood strategies and options for the local people; recommend suitable interventions linking them with cash and voucher assistance.
• Analyse the risks associated with CVA and identification of Financial Service Providers.

The feasibility study found cash and/or voucher to be highly feasible for the project interventions to achieve the protection,
education and livelihoods outcomes in Ethiopia. Humanitarian agencies have been undertaking CVA covering multiple needs of the affected population. There is a positive appetite for CVA by all stakeholder including the communities, humanitarian agencies, donors, financial service providers and authorities. The use of Cash/Voucher modality differs with the context such as Cash/voucher is feasible in the IDP (Internal Displaced Person) context while voucher modality is limited to refugee context in Gambella due to the status of people (refugees) and also preferred by the host government. The extent to which CVA has
already been used in past and current humanitarian response is a strong indicator of the feasibility of using the modality in future emergencies.