(Ecofin Agency) - The World Bank is worried about the conditions of refugees in Chad amid the Covid-19 pandemic. The institution announced on August 17 it is investing CFA3 billion ($5.3 million) through its Refugee and Host Community Support Project (PARCA) to help them cope.

Under this program, 22,000 households in N’djamena will benefit from a one-time cash transfer of CFA120,000 payable only once. According to the World Bank, a total of $145 million has been made available to help Chad take care of refugees and their hosts. The main objective is to improve their access to basic social services and livelihoods.

"To assist the households most affected by the anti-Covid-19 measures, the Chadian government has set up, in partnership with the World Bank, a swift response [...] The households will benefit from the PARCA program through the International Development Association,” Issa Doubragne, Minister of Economy, explained.

This IDA grant covers seven provinces, namely Wadi-Fira, Mandoul, Ennedi-Est, Moyen Chari, Logone Oriental, Ouaddaï, and Lac.

 Jean-Marc Gogbeu (intern)