Social Inclusion

In Guinea-Bissau, the coverage of social protection programmes remains highly limited. Tight fiscal space and weak administrative capacity constrain how services are funded and delivered. More than 80% of children under 5 suffer from two or more simultaneous deprivations, and 53% live in severe child food poverty.

The absence of integrated beneficiary identification systems and coordinated delivery mechanisms limits the State's capacity to reach the most vulnerable families. Children with disabilities, women, and families in rural areas are the most affected.

Increasing exposure to climate shocks further compounds this vulnerability. Guinea-Bissau ranks 4th globally on UNICEF's Children's Climate Risk Index, making the development of shock-responsive social protection systems a matter of urgency.

UNICEF’s Response

Although large-scale coverage of social protection programmes for children is not yet a reality, UNICEF has focused strongly on building the systemic and policy foundations required for sustainable future expansion.

Policy Development and System Strengthening

In 2025, UNICEF supported the transition from policy formulation to the initial implementation of the National Social Protection Policy (PNPS), reinforcing interministerial coordination and clarifying institutional roles. More than 250 government officials and stakeholders were engaged in this process. UNICEF also supported Guinea-Bissau's participation in the 2025 Open Budget Survey, promoting budget transparency in social sectors.

Emergency Response and Resilience

UNICEF trained 100 government technicians and partners in emergency preparedness and response, aiming to embed shock-responsive features into the social protection system. South-South exchanges with Cabo Verde and Burkina Faso generated lessons on governance models and delivery systems tailored to fragile contexts.

Direct Support Mechanisms and Equity

UNICEF strengthened core system functions, including beneficiary identification and management information systems, creating the conditions for a more coordinated delivery of cash transfers. Gender sensitivity and the inclusion of persons with disabilities were mainstreamed into the design and implementation of social protection policies.