Audit of a project to reduce mortality among Egyptian children by upgrading four programs of the Ministry of Health — expanded program of immunization; acute respiratory infection; child nutrition, and child spacing. Audit covers the period 7/85 to 1/90. The major conclusions are as follows. (1) The U.S. TA contractor failed to provide agreed upon key personnel and the necessary work products, such as work and implementation plans, in a timely manner. (2) While vaccination coverage has almost been achieved, its desired effect may not be accomplished because of deficiencies in the cold chain. (3) Training has been seriously delayed — less than 10% of targeted training has been provided. (4) Substantial amounts are available in the budget that could be either saved or reprogrammed for other purposes. (5) Project progress will be difficult to measure because output indicators are vague and outdated. To correct these problems, recommendations were made for prompt action to be taken by USAID/E to resolve any outstanding issues, including amending formal project documents to reflect the necessary changes suggested by the audit. USAID/E”s project officials were actively involved in monitoring and managing project activities, attempting to accelerate progress and taking corrective action. Management had initiated action on many of the issues identified before, during and after the audit was made. (Author abstract, modified)
