The study looks at the Sahelian evidence base to determine what is known and what is still unknown about how social protection programs affect social cohesiveness in the area. Recipients of social security programs frequently reported increased trust, collaboration for the common good, participation in local groups, and a stronger feeling of inclusive identity as a result of the programs’ improved social cohesiveness. Perceptions of programs’ legality and fairness among non-beneficiaries vary depending on the situation. In conclusion, the process of choosing beneficiaries may lead to social disputes and tensions among neighbors, underscoring the need of comprehending the influence of pre-existing contextual elements. Regarding evidence gaps, there aren’t many qualitative research that show how social protection programs affect non-beneficiaries’ social cohesiveness, and these studies may not be indicative of the entire program. Additionally, the majority of the research focuses on horizontal social cohesiveness inside communities, whereas the knowledge base on the effects of social cohesion between communities (out-groups) and between people and the state (vertical cohesion) in the Sahel is lacking.