The contracts for the new Dry Zone programme have recently been finalised. Last week, five of the programmes' partners met to share details about their respective projects, identify points of mutual interest and potential collaborations. Our Financial Inclusion partners working in the area also attended the meeting to provide a better understanding of how their work and products can contribute to project success.
Save the Children presented their nutrition project, which is trialling the effectiveness of maternal cash transfers to mothers within the 1000 Days window - from a child's conception through to its second birthday. Please find the presentation here. This project links with UN Habitat’s hygiene promotion project. Management of the maternal cash transfers will be handled by Pact Global Microfinance Fund (PGMF) .
The Food and Agriculture Organisation presented their livestock project. This will work at policy level, and also develop best practice manuals for livestock owners for environmentally and economically sound livestock production. Read more here.
The International Fertiliser Development Centre (IFDC) presented their agricultural advisory service project which improves agricultural extension services through the close cooperation between private and public sectors including Yoma Bank. Microfinance institutions, Proximity Finance and PGMF will also provide working capital to farmers.
HelpAge presented plans for the implementation of social protection components that support existing village-based social protection schemes. The project will support two government programmes that provide old age social pensions and support for people with disabilities. Find the full presentation here.
UN Habitat discussed their plans to work in the same villages as HelpAge to improve water and sanitation. The goal of their project is to achieve zero open defecation, which will mainly be achieved through behaviour change education. Read more here.
The next step for the Dry Zone programme is the official launch workshop on the 17th February in Pakokku, where township representatives from the programme's six townships are set to attend.
