The Impact of Social Protection Programs on the Livelihoods of Vulnerable Children in Rural Communities: The Case of Kpetema, Nongowa Chiefdom, Kenema District.
Fassie Manju
, Alusine Vandy , Mohamed Harding , Mahamud Feika , Patrick Kapkama Jones
Key words: Social Protection Programmes, Vulnerable Children, Rural Communities, Poverty
Abstract
Social protection programs play a pivotal role in addressing poverty and vulnerability among children, particularly in underprivileged communities. This study examines the impact of social protection programs on the livelihood of vulnerable children in Kpetema, Nongowa Chiefdom, and Kenema District. The research focuses on understanding the nature and scope, types and effectiveness of these programs in addressing the challenges faced by vulnerable children and their families. The study utilized a descriptive survey design, with a sample consisting of 91 participants drawn from a total population of 120. This sample was selected through a combination of simple random sampling and purposive sampling techniques. The research employed various instruments, including questionnaires and key informant interviews. The quantitative data collected were analyzed for instrument reliability using statistical software tools, specifically SPSS version 26 and Microsoft Excel.
The analysis of the quantitative data involved calculating both absolute and relative frequencies, which were subsequently illustrated through figures and tables. The findings reveal a variety of social protection programs implemented in Kpetema, including cash transfers, school feeding programs, and community-based health initiatives. These programs aim to mitigate poverty and vulnerability by improving access to education, healthcare, and basic necessities. The study highlights that while these programs have significantly contributed to reducing financial burdens on families, enhancing school attendance, and improving children’s health outcomes, the coverage and resources allocated remain insufficient to meet the high demand. Moreover, the research identifies several challenges and barriers to effective program implementation. These include limited funding, inadequate staffing, poor coordination among stakeholders, and logistical difficulties in reaching remote areas. Cultural stigmas and a lack of awareness among beneficiaries further impede program success. To address these challenges, the study provides actionable recommendations for policymakers, NGOs, and other stakeholders. These include increasing budgetary allocations for social protection programs, strengthening community involvement, enhancing public-private partnerships, and implementing targeted capacity-building initiatives for programme facilitators. Furthermore, it calls for the establishment of monitoring and evaluation mechanisms to assess programme effectiveness and adapt strategies as needed. By addressing these areas, stakeholders can enhance the impact and sustainability of social protection programmes, ultimately improving the livelihoods of vulnerable children in Kpetema.
"The Impact of Social Protection Programs on the Livelihoods of Vulnerable Children in Rural Communities: The Case of Kpetema, Nongowa Chiefdom, Kenema District.", IJSDR - International Journal of Scientific Development and Research (www.IJSDR.org), ISSN:2455-2631, Vol.11, Issue 1, page no.a333-a361, January-2026, Available :https://ijsdr.org/papers/IJSDR2601038.pdf
Volume 11
Issue 1,
January-2026
Pages : a333-a361
Paper Reg. ID: IJSDR_306675
Published Paper Id: IJSDR2601038
Downloads: 000259
Research Area: Social Science All
Country: Bo, Sierra Leone, Sierra Leone
ISSN: 2455-2631 | IMPACT FACTOR: 9.15 Calculated By Google Scholar | ESTD YEAR: 2016
An International Scholarly Open Access Journal, Peer-Reviewed, Refereed Journal Impact Factor 9.15 Calculate by Google Scholar and Semantic Scholar | AI-Powered Research Tool, Multidisciplinary, Monthly, Multilanguage Journal Indexing in All Major Database & Metadata, Citation Generator
Publisher: IJSDR(IJ Publication) Janvi Wave
