CARIBBEAN DEVELOPMENT FACILITY

This evaluation, which has an annual evaluation (XD-AAG-610-1) attached to it, was based on site visits, interviews, and a review of files. Subproject screening and approval for financing has conformed with project agreements. The Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) defined project target groups when material submitted by donors was insufficient. Nevertheless, the disbursement of CDF funds is not being met. Although funds have been used in Guyana and will be fully disbursed in Barbados by 12/31/80, institutional barriers have inhibited this process in Jamaica. These funds should either be transferred or the project completion dates extended to 12/31/81. Altogether, the project generated employment for approximately 6,700 workers. Recommendations include the following: (1) The information flow between the CDB and RDO/C should be improved. (2) CDB/AID monitoring of subproject activities should be improved with bilateral missions taking a more active role. It is therefore suggested that: RDO/C request quarterly/semester reports from participating host governments; regional or bilateral missions make onsite visits every 6 months and submit reports to RDO/C; regional missions conduct in-country annual subproject reviews; RDO/C encourage input from bilateral missions on subprojects prior to CDB acceptance for CDF funding; and RDO/C provide bilateral missions with subproject and managerial data, and copies of trip reports. Specific action should also be taken: (1) The three Ministries of Finance should submit revised projections of their utilization of CDF II funds. (2) Onsite visits should be increased. (3) Bilateral missions should carry out periodic site visits. (4) Host country institutions should send CDB copies of the quarterly reports given to donors. (5) Donors should send CDB copies of their subproject appraisals. (6) Donors should inform CDB/RDO/C of their schedule of visits to permit joint visits and provide AID/CDB with briefings.