Bauchi: USAID Launches Cash Transfer, Health Insurance Program for Vulnerable

The U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), through its Integrated Child Health and Social Services Award (ICHSSA-4) project, has unveiled a transformative initiative in Bauchi State aimed at providing financial support and health insurance to vulnerable households. The program, launched in collaboration with the Bauchi State Contributory Health Management Agency and the Ministry of Women Affairs, Child Development, and Social Welfare, is designed to uplift orphans, vulnerable children (OVC), and their families.

Key interventions under the initiative include:

• Health Insurance: ₦10.8 million has been allocated to cover insurance premiums for 1,201 beneficiaries.
• Cash Transfer Scheme: A total of ₦30 million will be disbursed to 1,503 beneficiaries, with each receiving ₦20,000.

In total, the initiative represents an investment of ₦40.9 million as part of the broader five-year ICHSSA-4 project, running from 2019 to 2024.

Pro-Health International, the lead implementing partner, along with Catholic Relief Services as a technical partner, aims to mitigate the effects of HIV and other factors contributing to vulnerability across Bauchi and five other states: Adamawa, Taraba, Kebbi, Sokoto, and Zamfara.

Dr. Joseph Inyang, Chief of Party for the USAID-funded ICHSSA-4 project, stressed the importance of this collaboration. “Our mission is to work closely with state governments and local organizations to provide high-quality, comprehensive services to those in urgent need,” he said. He added, “Through this initiative, we are empowering children to thrive — ensuring their health, education, and well-being in safe and supportive environments.”

Dr. Inyang also highlighted the program’s holistic approach, noting that by integrating health insurance and cash transfers, it offers a crucial safety net for vulnerable families. “This combination promotes economic resilience and lays the groundwork for long-term financial independence,” he said.

The launch event featured keynote speeches, testimonials from vocational training program graduates, the presentation of start-up business equipment, and symbolic checks for cash transfers. Health insurance cards were also distributed to beneficiaries. Representatives from government ministries, civil society organizations, and USAID’s implementing partners attended the event.