This project will help build a robust safety net system that provides chronic and transient poor people with both basic income support and access to opportunities that will help lift them out of poverty,' Crookes added.

This policy credit will help establish a national targeting system based on objective and transparent criteria, supported by strong and transparent institutions for collecting enrollment data, determining eligibility and benefit payments and for addressing grievances.

The programme will have a strong emphasis on monitoring and evaluation to ensure that benefits reach poor people.

The World Bank also approved $100 million to support the government's efforts to improve higher education.

The higher education support programme credit will support the government's initiatives to increase participation, enhance quality and relevance and strengthen the efficiency and financial sustainability of higher education institutions.