International Journal of Humanities and Social Science Invention (IJHSSI) ISSN (Online): 2319 – 7722, ISSN (Print): 2319 – 7714 www.ijhssi.org ||Volume 14 Issue 1 || January 2025 || PP. 22-30 DOI: 10.35629/7722-14012230 www.ijhssi.org 22 | Page Strengthening Institutional Capacity for Effective Social Protection Cash Transfers in the Gambia. Oghenekevwe Kingsley OGBETA Department of Management Sciences, School of Business and Public Administration, The University of The Gambia, Faraba Banta, The Gambia. Oyejide Felix OMOTOSHO Department of Political Science, School of Arts and Sciences, The University of The Gambia, Faraba Banta, The Gambia. Isatou BAH Department of Development Studies, School of Arts and Sciences, The University of The Gambia, Faraba Banta, The Gambia. Abstract: This study evaluated the effectiveness of institutional capacity in managing social protection cash transfers in The Gambia, aiming to provide insights into how institutional structures can be strengthened for better service delivery. The research objectives are identifying factors contributing to the strengthening of institutional capacity, assessing the effect of institutional capacity on the effectiveness of social protection programmes, and analysing the challenges hindering capacity-building efforts. A mixed-methods approach was used. Primary data were gathered through questionnaires and interviews. Secondary data from institutional reports and policy documents provided additional context, enriching the study's findings. Regarding the first objective, the study identified key factors for strengthening institutional capacity include financial investments, staff training, and improved data systems. International partnerships with organizations like UNICEF and the World Bank have also bolstered institutional frameworks. For the second objective, the study found that enhanced institutional capacity improved the effectiveness of social protection cash transfers, particularly in beneficiary identification and staff training, although challenges in programmes implementation, monitoring, and accountability remain.. In the third objective, major challenges include inadequate funding, outdated data systems, and logistical inefficiencies, with political factors also impeding progress. The study’s hypothesis confirmed a significant relationship between institutional capacity and the effectiveness of social protection programmes. Recommendations include increasing financial investment, upgrading technology and data systems, and enhancing staff training to improve management and efficiency. In conclusion, the study highlights the crucial role of institutional capacity in ensuring the success of social protection cash transfers in The Gambia. Key Words: Institutional Capacity, Social Protection, Cash Transfers, Poverty Alleviation, Vulnerable Populations, and The Gambia. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Date of Submission: 01-01-2025 Date of acceptance: 10-01-2025 --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- I. Introduction Social protection programmes are essential in reducing poverty and improving the welfare of vulnerable populations, especially in developing countries, The Gambia inclusive. These programmes usually involve cash transfers, which provide financial assistance directly to the poor. However, the significance of these cash transfer programmes heavily depends on the institutional capacity of the implementing agencies. This study concentrates on strengthening institutional capacity for effective social protection cash transfers in The Gambia, examining the various factors affecting these programmes' successes. Institutional capacity plays a pivotal role in implementing social protection programmes. For instance, Bamidele (2023) appraises the cash transfer programmes in Ekiti State, Nigeria, highlighting how strong institutional frameworks can significantly improve the welfare of beneficiaries. Similarly, Bender, Rohregger, Kinuthia, Ikua, Pouw, and Schüring (2017) stress the importance of institutional change in extending social protection to the poor, using Kenya as a case study. Their analysis indicates that improving institutional capacity can lead to more effective and sustainable social protection programmes.