Developments in potato research in Central Africa -- project evaluation : Programme Regional d"Amelioration de la Culture de la Pomme de Terre en Afrique Centrale (PRAPAC)

This evaluation of PRAPAC focuses on its progress in: developing improved varieties and other potato technologies; strengthening member national programs and their institutional partners, as well as linkages between research programs and extension development agencies; and developing a self-sustaining potato research network. Also addressed are management issues such as the CIP"s backstopping of PRAPAC, financial management and the use of donor resources, and PRAPAC monitoring and evaluation systems. According to the report, PRAPAC has made positive progress towards its goals, most notably by linking four independent NARS into a coordinated system of research planning and execution at the regional level. This collaboration has led to the development of new varieties more resistant to late blight and bacterial wilt, as well as promising developments in true potato seed technology and the development of an efficient basic seed production scheme. There has also been considerable progress towards self-sustainability, although much room for improvement remains. Recommendations fall into three broad categories -- regional coordination, strengthening member national programs, and technical issues, with the need for member governments to develop a critical mass of researchers, provide adequate research infrastructure, and increase funding among the urgent concerns. Appendices include profiles of the four PRAPAC countries and a list of PRAPAC publications.