Providing High Expertise on Local Development in Africa

As Africa continues to experience rapid economic growth, the need for high expertise in local development has never been more critical. This article explores the importance of providing high expertise in local development in Africa, the challenges faced, and the strategies that can be employed to overcome these challenges.

The Importance of High Expertise in Local Development

High expertise in local development is crucial for several reasons:

• It promotes sustainable development: Experts can provide guidance on how to utilize local resources sustainably, ensuring long-term growth.
• It fosters innovation: High expertise can lead to the development of innovative solutions tailored to local needs and conditions.
• It enhances capacity building: By transferring knowledge and skills, experts can help build the capacity of local communities, enabling them to drive their own development.

Challenges in Providing High Expertise

Despite its importance, providing high expertise in local development in Africa is not without challenges. These include:

• Limited resources: Many African countries lack the financial resources needed to attract and retain high-level experts.
• Insufficient infrastructure: Poor infrastructure can hinder the delivery of expertise, particularly in remote areas.
• Language barriers: With over 2000 languages spoken across the continent, communication can be a significant challenge.

Case Study: The Role of High Expertise in Rwanda’s Development

Rwanda provides a compelling example of how high expertise can drive local development. Following the 1994 genocide, Rwanda embarked on a journey of reconstruction and development. High expertise played a crucial role in this process. For instance, experts from various fields helped design and implement the Vision 2020 development program, which aimed to transform Rwanda into a middle-income country by 2020. As a result, Rwanda has made significant strides in areas such as health, education, and ICT, demonstrating the transformative power of high expertise.

Strategies for Providing High Expertise

Given the challenges, several strategies can be employed to provide high expertise in local development in Africa:

• Partnerships: Collaborations with international organizations, NGOs, and universities can help attract high-level expertise.
• Capacity building: Investing in education and training can help build local expertise.
• Technology: Digital platforms can be used to deliver expertise to remote areas, overcoming infrastructure challenges.

Conclusion

Providing high expertise in local development is crucial for Africa’s sustainable growth. While challenges exist, they can be overcome through strategic partnerships, capacity building, and the use of technology. As the case of Rwanda demonstrates, high expertise can drive innovation, promote sustainable development, and transform societies. Therefore, investing in high expertise should be a priority for all stakeholders committed to Africa’s development.

Title: The Crucial Role of Accountability in Local Governance: Insights from Africa

Accountability forms the bedrock of effective local governance, promoting transparency, integrity, and trust between citizens and their local authorities. It encompasses various aspects such as planning, programming, service delivery, and monitoring and evaluation. This article delves into the significance of accountability in local governance, drawing insights from several examples and case studies across Africa

1. Planning:Accountability in local governance begins with robust planning processes that involve citizens and stakeholders. By engaging the community in decision-making, accountability is fostered as local authorities are held responsible for fulfilling their commitments. In Uganda, the Participatory Integrated Development Planning (PIDP) approach has empowered communities to actively participate in local planning, resulting in successful projects and improved service delivery

2. Programming:Effective programming is essential to address the diverse needs of local communities. Accountability ensures that funds allocated for projects are utilized appropriately and that the programs are implemented as intended. South Africa’s Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) is a notable example. By providing employment opportunities, the EPWP has uplifted disadvantaged communities while being subject to rigorous monitoring and evaluation, ensuring transparency and accountability

3. Service Delivery:Accountability plays a pivotal role in ensuring efficient and equitable service delivery to citizens. It holds local authorities responsible for providing essential services such as water, sanitation, healthcare, and education. In Kenya, the Huduma Centres have been instrumental in improving service delivery by offering a one-stop-shop for various government services. The centers are monitored through citizen feedback mechanisms and performance evaluations, promoting accountability and responsiveness

4. Monitoring and Evaluation:Accountability is reinforced through robust monitoring and evaluation mechanisms that track the progress and impact of programs and projects. These mechanisms enable local authorities to identify areas for improvement and ensure resources are utilized optimally. In Ghana, the District League Table (DLT) has been introduced to monitor the performance of local governments. This ranking system enables citizens to hold their local authorities accountable for service delivery and promotes healthy competition among districts

Accountability serves as a cornerstone for effective local governance in Africa, fostering transparency, citizen participation, and trust. Through inclusive planning, responsible programming, improved service delivery, and rigorous monitoring and evaluation, local authorities can be held accountable for their actions and decisions. The examples and case studies highlighted in this article demonstrate the transformative power of accountability in improving the lives of citizens and ensuring the efficient utilization of resources. As Africa continues to strive for sustainable development, accountability in local governance remains crucial for achieving equitable and responsive governance systems.

Violent Extremism and Disinformation in the Sahel Countries

The Sahel region, a semi-arid belt of land in Africa stretching from Senegal to Sudan, has been a hotbed of violent extremism and disinformation. This article explores the interplay between these two phenomena, their implications, and potential solutions.

The Rise of Violent Extremism

Over the past decade, the Sahel has seen a surge in violent extremism. Groups such as Boko Haram, Al-Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb (AQIM), and the Islamic State in the Greater Sahara (ISGS) have exploited the region’s socio-economic vulnerabilities to establish a foothold.

• Boko Haram: Originating from Nigeria, Boko Haram has carried out numerous attacks in the Lake Chad Basin, causing widespread displacement and humanitarian crises.
• AQIM: AQIM has been active in the Sahel since the early 2000s, primarily in Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso.
• ISGS: ISGS emerged more recently, capitalizing on local grievances and inter-communal conflicts to expand its influence.

Disinformation as a Tool of Extremism

Disinformation plays a crucial role in the strategies of these extremist groups. They use it to recruit members, incite violence, and undermine state authority. For instance, they often spread false narratives about government corruption or religious persecution to stoke resentment and justify their actions.

Case Study: The 2012 Mali Coup

In 2012, disinformation contributed to a military coup in Mali. Extremist groups exploited political instability and ethnic tensions, spreading false information about the government’s alleged complicity in atrocities. This disinformation campaign helped to create a climate of fear and mistrust, paving the way for the coup.

The Impact of Violent Extremism and Disinformation

The combination of violent extremism and disinformation has had devastating effects on the Sahel region. It has not only led to loss of life and displacement but also hindered development efforts and exacerbated existing challenges such as poverty, food insecurity, and climate change.

Addressing the Challenge

Addressing violent extremism and disinformation in the Sahel requires a multi-faceted approach. This includes:

• Strengthening State Capacity: Governments need to improve their ability to provide basic services, enforce the rule of law, and counter disinformation.
• Community Engagement: Local communities must be involved in efforts to prevent radicalization and promote social cohesion.
• Regional and International Cooperation: Given the transnational nature of these challenges, cooperation at the regional and international levels is crucial.

Conclusion

Violent extremism and disinformation pose significant threats to peace and stability in the Sahel. While the situation is complex, with no easy solutions, it is clear that a comprehensive approach involving state capacity building, community engagement, and regional and international cooperation is needed. By understanding the dynamics of these challenges, we can work towards a more peaceful and prosperous Sahel.

• Client: UNDP
• Location: Mauritania
• Period: May-August 2023

The feasibility study examined the viability of the Accelerated Community Development Program (PADC) in Mauritania and will assess whether it is likely to become a vehicle for promoting accelerated community development in line with governments’ pro-poor objectives. Specifically, the feasibility study will:

For Mauritania, its alignment with the SCAPP, the ProPEP, the priority initiative for opening up, and accelerating the digital desert, and its climate change mitigation objectives as indicated in the country’s nationally determined contribution (NDC);
Consult with key stakeholders, especially at the community level, including beneficiaries, local and central government officials, and community groups, but also technical and financial partners, to gather the necessary information and data that will maintain the relevance of PADC interventions to ensure ownership and sustainability
Develop detailed costing of PADC interventions disaggregated at regional and local levels, including detailed budgeting for all interventions such as rural roads, on-grid energy solutions, water supply, and agricultural (production and processing) equipment, livestock products and land development where needed, markets, and education and health facilities. The cost should include all direct and indirect costs of infrastructure upkeep and maintenance, including strengthening local capacity for operation and maintenance.
Review current institutional settings and propose optimal institutional oversight with defined roles and responsibilities and capacity needs of key national and subnational stakeholders that will ensure sustainability of PADC interventions.
Develop a cost-benefit analysis highlighting the likely benefits and outcomes for countries and communities, particularly the economic and social returns of the PADC
Identify potential partners and implementation modalities, including targeting and exit strategy.
Formulate a detailed and targeted resource mobilization strategy through assessment of government budgets as well as identification of international financial institutions and donors interested in financing development projects in Mauritania.

Final Evaluation Summary: PROTEJEM Program

Client: Save the Children International / Terre des Hommes

Location: Côte d’Ivoire, Gambia, Guinea, Senegal

Implementation Period: August – December 2023

Overview

ALG conducted a comprehensive final evaluation of the PROTEJEM program, an initiative designed to safeguard vulnerable children and promote their rights across West Africa. The evaluation’s purpose was to assess the program’s effectiveness, measure its impact, and extract valuable lessons for subsequent initiatives.

Evaluation Focus

The primary objectives of the assessment were to:

1. Measure the program’s overall effectiveness and efficiency in achieving its stated outcomes.
2. Determine the relevance and long-term sustainability of the implemented interventions.
3. Gather stakeholder feedback, particularly from beneficiaries, regarding satisfaction and opportunities for improvement.

Methodology

A mixed-methods approach was utilized, incorporating quantitative data from surveys with qualitative insights obtained through interviews and focus group discussions. Stakeholders in the four target countries—Côte d’Ivoire, Gambia, Guinea, and Senegal—were engaged to ensure a holistic view of the program’s impact.

Key Findings

The evaluation concluded with positive outcomes, reflecting the program’s strong performance:

• Impact and Effectiveness: The PROTEJEM program was highly successful in strengthening child protection mechanisms regionally. A majority of beneficiaries reported greater awareness of their rights and improved access to protective services.
• Stakeholder Endorsement: Local partners and beneficiaries expressed high satisfaction with the program’s implementation, highlighting its relevance to local needs and its adaptability to the specific socio-cultural contexts.
• Sustainability: The program has created a solid basis for sustained impact. Capacity-building initiatives with local organizations were successful, laying the groundwork for continued child protection efforts after the program’s conclusion.
• Challenges Identified: Logistical constraints and inconsistent engagement levels across different local communities were noted as areas for improvement in future programming.

The Assignment

The overall objective of the mission is to define a community vision and develop a regional housing strategy, with a view to enabling the UEMOA Commission to position itself in the housing sector and to create a network of partners with national, regional or international stakeholders.

ALG is responsible for providing technical support to the UEMOA Commission, through the departments involved in the implementation of the Promotion of Affordable Housing Financing (PFLA) and the development and elaboration of regulatory tools (directive & harmonization of texts) and in the definition of a regional housing strategy. The firm is associated in this mission with two architectural firms: Orule Architecture and Urba Tropiques.

More specifically, it involves: “Co-constructing with stakeholders the tools promoting the implementation of a strengthened regional policy in the field of affordable housing production, in line with the objectives and recommendations of the Millennium Development Declaration”.

Assist the UEMOA commission in the development of a regulatory framework document for the production of affordable housing.

Challenges and Strategic Approach

The West African Economic and Monetary Union (UEMOA), which includes member states such as Benin, Burkina Faso, Côte d’Ivoire, Guinea-Bissau, Mali, Niger, Senegal, and Togo, faces significant housing challenges. The community vision for housing in the UEMOA area emphasizes the need for accessible, affordable, and sustainable housing solutions that cater to the growing urban population while promoting social equity and economic development.

Challenges

1. Urbanization Pressure: Rapid urbanization has led to a surge in housing demand, often outpacing supply. This has resulted in the proliferation of informal settlements and inadequate housing conditions.

2. Financial Constraints: Limited access to affordable financing options hampers both individual homebuyers and housing developers. High-interest rates, lack of mortgage products, and insufficient investment in housing infrastructure pose significant barriers.

3. Policy and Regulatory Framework: Inconsistent policies and regulatory environments across member states complicate the implementation of housing initiatives. There is often a lack of coordination among governmental bodies, leading to fragmented approaches to housing development.

4. Social Inequality: Marginalized groups, including women, youth, and low-income households, frequently face discrimination in accessing housing. This exacerbates social inequalities and hinders community cohesion.

5. Environmental Sustainability: With increasing climate change impacts, there is a pressing need for sustainable housing solutions that minimize environmental degradation and enhance resilience to natural disasters.

Strategic Approach

1. Integrated Housing Policies: UEMOA member states should develop comprehensive housing policies that align with regional goals. These policies must promote inclusivity, ensure equitable access to housing, and facilitate the development of affordable housing projects.

2. Financial Innovations: Encouraging the development of innovative financing mechanisms, such as microfinance, public-private partnerships, and housing cooperatives, can enhance access to housing finance. Additionally, establishing a regional housing fund could support low-income housing initiatives.

3. Capacity Building and Training: Enhancing the skills of local authorities, architects, and builders through training programs can improve the quality of housing. Knowledge-sharing initiatives among member states can also foster best practices in housing development.

4. Community Engagement: Involving communities in the planning and implementation of housing projects ensures that developments meet local needs. Participatory approaches can empower residents, leading to more sustainable and accepted housing solutions.

5. Sustainable Development Practice: Integrating sustainable construction methods and materials into housing projects can mitigate environmental impacts. Promoting energy-efficient designs and green spaces within urban areas will contribute to healthier living conditions.

The community vision for housing in the UEMOA area must address the multifaceted challenges of urbanization, finance, policy, social inequality, and sustainability. By adopting a strategic approach that encompasses integrated policies, innovative financing, capacity building, community engagement, and sustainable practices, UEMOA can pave the way for a more equitable and resilient housing landscape. This vision not only seeks to improve living conditions but also strengthens the socio-economic fabric of the region, fostering inclusive growth for all its inhabitants.

The initiative for developing an anti-corruption strategy comes from the High Authority for State Control and the Fight against Corruption (ASCE-LC) and the Independent National Electoral Commission (CENI). Both entities are supported by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).

ALG has been mandated to provide its expertise in the process of developing the strategy. The firm’s mission is to conduct an in-depth study on electoral corruption in Burkina Faso, with an emphasis on understanding the root causes, manifestations and consequences of this phenomenon. The mission also involves developing a comprehensive strategy to combat electoral corruption, while engaging in a participatory approach with the main stakeholders involved in the electoral process. The firm will have to propose a monitoring and evaluation system to ensure the effective implementation of the recommended actions and develop a budget for carrying out these activities over a period of five years.

The study aims to achieve the following objectives:

• Conduct a diagnosis: Identify, analyze and comprehensively document the different facets of electoral corruption, highlighting its underlying causes, concrete manifestations and consequences on the integrity of the electoral process
• Develop an Action Plan: Formulate a comprehensive strategy and specific actions to effectively combat electoral corruption. This strategy should include preventive, corrective and dissuasive measures, while being adapted to the Burkinabe context.
• Propose a monitoring and evaluation system: Establish a robust monitoring and evaluation system to measure the implementation of the recommended actions, assess their effectiveness and make adjustments if necessary. This system will ensure transparency and accountability in the fight against electoral corruption.
• Develop a Multi-Year Budget: Develop a detailed budget covering a three-year period (a three-year action plan from 2024 to 2026) in order to guarantee the necessary funding to effectively implement the strategy to combat electoral corruption. This budget must be realistic and kept up to date throughout the execution period.

The Role of Regional Security Cooperation in Countering Violent Extremism in the Sahel Region

The Sahel region of Africa is a region of immense strategic importance, as it is home to a number of fragile states and is a major transit point for illicit goods and people. It is also a region that is particularly vulnerable to the threat of violent extremism, with a number of extremist groups operating in the region. In order to effectively counter this threat, regional security cooperation is essential.

Regional security cooperation is a key tool in countering violent extremism in the Sahel region. It involves the coordination of efforts between states in the region to address common security threats, such as terrorism and organized crime. This cooperation can take many forms, including the sharing of intelligence, the coordination of military operations, and the development of joint strategies to address the root causes of extremism.

The sharing of intelligence is a key component of regional security cooperation in the Sahel region. By sharing intelligence, states can better identify and target extremist groups, as well as their sources of funding and support. This intelligence sharing can also help states to better understand the motivations and strategies of extremist groups, allowing them to develop more effective counter-measures.

The coordination of military operations is also an important part of regional security cooperation in the Sahel region. By coordinating their efforts, states can more effectively target extremist groups and disrupt their operations. This can include the deployment of joint military forces, as well as the sharing of resources and expertise.

Finally, regional security cooperation can also involve the development of joint strategies to address the root causes of extremism. This can include the development of economic and social policies that address poverty and inequality, as well as the promotion of education and religious tolerance. By addressing the underlying causes of extremism, states can help to reduce the appeal of extremist ideologies and prevent the spread of violent extremism.

In conclusion, regional security cooperation is an essential tool in countering violent extremism in the Sahel region. Through the sharing of intelligence, the coordination of military operations, and the development of joint strategies to address the root causes of extremism, states can more effectively target extremist groups and disrupt their operations. This regional cooperation is essential for ensuring the security and stability of the Sahel region. ALG has been supporting the development of the regional stabilization strategy, with the Liptako Gourma Authority, gathering Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger.

Examining the Impact of Climate Change on Security in the Sahel Region

Climate change is having a profound impact on security in the Sahel region of Africa. This region, which stretches from the Atlantic Ocean to the Red Sea, is home to some of the world’s poorest countries and is already facing a range of security challenges. Climate change is exacerbating these existing problems, leading to increased instability and insecurity in the region.

The Sahel region is particularly vulnerable to the effects of climate change due to its arid climate and fragile ecosystems. Rising temperatures and changing rainfall patterns are leading to desertification, soil erosion, and water scarcity. These environmental changes are having a direct impact on the livelihoods of the people living in the region, leading to increased poverty and food insecurity. This, in turn, is leading to increased competition for resources, which can lead to conflict between communities.

Climate change is also having an indirect impact on security in the Sahel region. As temperatures rise, the region is becoming increasingly attractive to migrants from other parts of Africa and the Middle East. This influx of people is putting a strain on already limited resources, leading to increased competition and tension between communities. In addition, the changing climate is making it easier for terrorist groups to operate in the region, as they are able to take advantage of the instability caused by environmental changes.

The security situation in the Sahel region is likely to worsen in the coming years as the effects of climate change become more pronounced. In order to address this issue, it is essential that governments in the region take steps to mitigate the effects of climate change and to build resilience to its impacts. This includes investing in sustainable agriculture, improving access to clean water, and providing support to vulnerable communities. In addition, it is important that the international community provides support to the region in order to help it cope with the effects of climate change. Only by taking these steps can the security situation in the Sahel region be improved.

Exploring the Role of Women in Countering Violent Extremism in the Sahel Region

The Sahel region of Africa is a region of immense cultural and religious diversity, and is home to a variety of ethnic and religious groups. In recent years, the region has been plagued by violent extremism, which has had a devastating impact on the lives of the people living there. While much of the focus on countering violent extremism (CVE) has been on military and security measures, there is an increasing recognition of the important role that women can play in countering this threat.

Women in the Sahel region have long been marginalized and excluded from decision-making processes, and this has had a negative impact on their ability to contribute to CVE efforts. However, there is growing evidence that women can be powerful agents of change in countering violent extremism. Women have unique insights into the dynamics of their communities, and can be effective in identifying and addressing the root causes of extremism. They can also be effective in providing support to victims of violence, and in promoting peace and reconciliation.

Women can also play an important role in countering extremist narratives. They can challenge extremist ideologies by providing alternative narratives that promote tolerance and respect for diversity. Women can also be effective in providing education and training to young people, helping to equip them with the skills and knowledge to resist extremist ideologies.

Finally, women can be powerful advocates for change in their communities. They can use their voices to challenge the status quo and to call for greater inclusion and participation in decision-making processes. This can help to create an environment in which extremism is less likely to take root.

In conclusion, women have an important role to play in countering violent extremism in the Sahel region. By leveraging their unique insights, skills, and experiences, women can be powerful agents of change in promoting peace and security in the region. It is therefore essential that women are included in CVE efforts, and that their voices are heard in the decision-making processes that shape the future of the region.

Insecurity in the Sahel is linked to the fragilities experienced by the States of the region. Several studies carried out in recent years have demonstrated this. Ongoing research work must be done to help government actors and regional decision-makers make the right decisions.

An innovative approach to local development

Accelerated community development programs (ACDPs) are a promising solution for local development in developing countries. These programs are designed to support local communities by providing them with resources and tools to improve their living conditions. ACDPs are designed to be implemented quickly and at low cost, making them a viable solution for African communities facing development challenges.

ACDPs are designed to address the root causes of local development problems in Africa. They rely on participatory and integrated approaches to support local communities in their development efforts. ACDPs are designed to address health, education, employment, and food security issues, among others. Programs may also include initiatives to improve access to clean water, energy, and sanitation, as well as promote sustainable agriculture and natural resource management.

ACDPs are adaptable to the specific needs of local communities. The programs are implemented by local partners, who work closely with communities to identify their needs and priorities. Local partners are responsible for implementing projects that respond to the needs of the communities and are adapted to their context.

PADC interventions are designed to be implemented quickly and at low cost. The programs are funded by international and national donors, as well as public and private funds. The programs are designed to be implemented in the short term, allowing communities to benefit from the results quickly.

PADCs are therefore a promising solution for local development for the countries that initiate them. The programs address the root causes of local development problems and are designed to adapt to the specific needs of local communities. The programs are implemented quickly and at low cost, making them a viable solution for African communities facing development challenges.

How can accelerated community development programs improve health, education and rural infrastructure in Africa?

Accelerated Community Development Programs (ACDPs) can significantly improve rural health, education, and infrastructure in Africa. These are programs that aim to improve the living conditions of rural communities in Africa by providing essential services and infrastructure. These programs are designed to be implemented quickly and at relatively low cost.

These programs improve the health of populations by providing primary health services and improving access to health care. ACDPs can also improve access to clean water and sanitation, which can reduce the risk of infectious diseases and malnutrition. In addition, ACDPs have the potential to provide mental health services and sexually transmitted disease prevention services.

ACDPs for countries that are piloting them also help improve education by providing school infrastructure and improving access to education. ACDPs can also provide literacy services and vocational training programs for youth and adults. In addition, PADCs can provide teacher support services and education outreach programs.

Finally, PADCs can improve rural infrastructure by providing roads, bridges, and irrigation systems. PADCs can also provide electricity and drinking water services, as well as telecommunications and transportation services. In addition, PADCs can provide farmer support services and agricultural development programs. PADCs, as we can see, can provide essential services and infrastructure that can significantly improve the quality of life of rural communities in Africa.

A solution for transport, water, and jobs development

Accelerated Community Development Programs (ACDPs) are a promising solution for transport, water, and jobs development in Africa. These programs are designed to provide essential services to communities that need them most, particularly in rural areas.

ACDPs provide basic services such as access to drinking water, electricity, transportation, and employment. They are usually implemented by non-government organizations.

PADCs can be an effective way to provide transport and water services to rural communities. PADCs can help improve access to safe water and sanitation, improve transport infrastructure, and create jobs. PADCs can also help improve access to health services and education, and reduce poverty.

PADCs help improve food security and reduce malnutrition. PADCs can help improve access to safe water and sanitation, improve transport infrastructure, and create jobs. PADCs can also help improve access to health services and education, and reduce poverty.

PADCs are emerging as a powerful tool for transport, water, and employment development in Africa. They can help improve access to basic services, reduce poverty and create jobs. PADCs can also help improve food security and reduce malnutrition. PADCs can be an effective way to provide transport and water services to rural communities.

A solution for efficient decentralization and grassroots development

Several African countries have set up PADCs in recent years. This is the case in Senegal, Gambia, Togo and the DRC. Other countries such as Mauritania and Niger are in the programming process. The UNDP Africa Bureau is counting on PADCs to support the rapid development of the countries in which the organization operates.

PADCs create the conditions for the effective implementation of decentralization policies with the participation of local communities, by giving them the means to take charge of their own development projects. PADCs are based on a participatory and integrated approach, which emphasizes the participation of local communities and their capacity to make decisions and implement projects.

PADCs support grassroots development by providing resources and services to local communities. These programs may include grants, loans, training, technical advice, and support services. PADCs may also provide health, social, and educational services. PADCs may also support local economic development by providing training services and support services to local businesses.

PADCs provide support services to local communities. These services may include consulting services, training services, and support services to community-based organizations. PADCs may also support grassroots development by providing support services to community-based organizations and local businesses.

PADCs also provide support services to local communities and local businesses. These services may include consulting services, training services, and support services to community-based organizations and local businesses. PADCs can also support grassroots development by providing support services to community organizations and local businesses.

ALG and the development of PADCs

ALG is working in these two countries at the request of UNDP to provide its expertise, capitalizing on some twenty years of consulting on local development and governance issues in Africa. ALG is based on the principle that local development is not a new phenomenon in African countries. The new dynamic driven by development partners such as UNDP is based on the quality of the national offer of sectoral public policies. It requires a rigorous framing of the entire process, from identification to execution, including execution which can test national capacities in various areas. It can therefore be said, without risk of being wrong, that PADCs strengthen the national dynamic of local development and optimize the development potential at the rural level.

Accelerated community development programs are a promising solution for grassroots development in Africa. They are designed to support the autonomy and decentralization of local communities, by giving them the means to take charge of their own development projects. PADCs can also support grassroots development by providing support services to local communities and local businesses.

• Project: Evaluation of the Support Program for the Implementation of the Response Plan for Educational Continuity in Burkina Faso
• Country: Burkina Faso
• Client: Agence Française de Développement (AFD)
• Period: October 2022-March 2023

Description of the intervention:

ALG was recruited by AFD to conduct the final evaluation of the Response Plan Support Program to (i) report on the activities financed with regard to the criteria of relevance, effectiveness, efficiency, sustainability, gender equality and equity; (ii) highlight what this health crisis has revealed about the functioning of the education system; and (iii) contribute to learning lessons from the management of this situation by the education community, by striving to show the progressive progression of the stages between observations (raw data), findings (developed indicators, ratios), judgments made and lessons/recommendations.

The objective of the service is to conduct the final evaluation of the Support Program for the Response Plan for Educational Continuity in Burkina, which will be carried out at the end of the eighteen months of implementation and will make it possible to report on the activities financed with regard to the criteria of relevance, effectiveness and efficiency.

Beyond the program financed by the GPE, the evaluation will focus on highlighting what this health crisis has revealed about the functioning of the education system to help learn lessons from the management of this situation by the education community. The service provider will strive throughout its work to clearly show and explain the progressive progression of the stages between observations (raw data), findings (developed indicators, ratios), judgments made and lessons/recommendations.