Child survival IX (FAO-0500-A-00-3029-00) : Malawi -- final evaluation

The project has had a positive impact on the health of mothers and infants in the project area, as reported by community members and by Ministry of Health (MOH) and project staff. It has catalyzed community organization for health improvement. Though not all objectives were achieved, increased use of contraception, increased interest in child health, increased vegetable gardening, and general interest in sanitation are documented through project reports, a community survey, and field observations. The incorporation of project Health Surveillance Assistants into the MOH began ahead of schedule, and ensures at least minimal sustainability for the project. The evaluation report contains a number of lessons learned, most important of which are related to the need for consistent planning for project closure from the onset, and the important role community structures, such as village headmen, Village Health Committees, traditional healers, and religious leaders, must play to achieve project success. The participation of the Project Director on the evaluation team facilitates the use of the evaluation results in the final weeks of the project, and increases the likelihood that lessons learned will be transmitted to those trying to sustain health improvements in Nsanje district. (Author abstract, modified)