Republic of the Union of Myanmar
              Maternal and Child Cash Transfers for Improved Nutrition Project
                                           September 26, 2019
                                           Chair Summary*

Executive Directors approved a credit to Myanmar in the amount of SDR 72 million (US$100
million equivalent) for the Maternal and Child Cash Transfers for Improved Nutrition Project on
the terms and conditions set out in the President’s Memorandum.

Directors welcomed the Bank’s first social protection project in Myanmar and the gender aspect
embedded in the project. They noted the importance of investing in nutrition in the early years for
longer term human capital development and the need to focus on the most vulnerable in areas with
high rates of poverty, malnutrition and vulnerability to risks. Directors also commended the
innovative technology used in the project to deliver messages, monitor progress, and help promote
behavioral change, but also advised the Bank to closely monitor the use of ICT to avoid downside
risks on beneficiaries’ privacy.

Directors acknowledged the challenges related to working in fragile and conflict-affected contexts
and noted the importance of enhanced monitoring and evaluation measures to ensure the
inclusiveness of the interventions. They also stressed the importance of close coordination with
development partners and relevant government agencies as the situation remains fragile.
Acknowledging the overall substantial risk of the operation, Directors underscored the need to
tailor approaches, engage with stakeholders, and put in place strong risk mitigation measures.




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*This Summary is not an approved record.