Communities Leading Development Project Quarterly Report 9 First Quarter, Fiscal Year 2019

The project aims to empower citizens through participation in development and implementation of Community Development Plans (CDPs) in Guatemala's Western Highlands. The project's start date is September 21, 2016, and the completion date is September 20, 2021, with a total estimated amount of $50,000,000. The project's objective is to improve the quality of life through the development and implementation of CDPs. To achieve this objective, the project focuses on three key areas: Citizens empowered through participation in development and implementation of CDPs, Quality of life improved through the development and implementation of CDPs, and Long-term sustainability of community development improved by increasing private sector engagement and resources. In the first quarter of Fiscal Year 2019, the project made significant progress in achieving its objectives. Field teams analyzed information collected from participating communities, and community commissions and committees were strengthened through institutional strengthening plans. Community Development Plans were formulated, and local groups were engaged to implement projects responsive to CDP priorities. The project also made progress in improving the quality of life through the development and implementation of CDPs. Community projects were supported through project disbursements, and community contributions were mobilized through the community resource mobilization strategy. Regular participatory monitoring of projects was also conducted, and community-based services and income-generating activities were implemented to promote healthy and prosperous citizens. In addition, the project made progress in increasing private sector engagement and resources. The Community Development Fund (CDF) was established, and private sector outreach activities were conducted to identify opportunities for co-investment and leverage. A long-term sustainability plan for the CDF was also developed, and alliances were formed for long-term sustainability of the CDF and increased investment in Guatemala's Western Highlands. The project encountered several problems, including security issues and challenges in implementing the community resource mobilization strategy. Remedial actions were proposed to address these issues, including training and accompaniment of community monitoring commissions and implementation of quick impact community development projects. The project also conducted several MEAL-related activities, including data quality assessments and monitoring and evaluation of project activities. Planned activities for the next quarter included continued implementation of CDPs, community projects, and private sector outreach activities. The project also revised its gender integration plan and conducted training events to build the capacity of community members and project staff. Overall, the Communities Leading Development Project made significant progress in the first quarter of Fiscal Year 2019 in achieving its objectives and improving the quality of life of citizens in Guatemala's Western Highlands.