E3 Water CKM Project – Contract AID-OAA-TO-15-00046 – Progress Report for Apr 2016 to Sept 2016

The project's primary objective is to enhance knowledge management and communication services in support of the water strategy, with a focus on improving health outcomes through sustainable Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) services and managing water for agriculture sustainably and more productively to enhance food security. The project's scope encompasses two core components: Knowledge Management (KM) and Communications. The KM component focuses on increasing water program knowledge and data capture, supporting knowledge creation and sharing internally and among external stakeholders, and enhancing communication and outreach through multiple channels and approaches. The Communications component involves developing external USAID website content, providing technical writing support for E3/W management operations, supporting USAID outreach in key global fora and other events, and utilizing social media and multimedia tools. The project team, led by ECODIT, consists of a Chief of Party (COP), Mr. James Hutchins, and a Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) Specialist, Ms. Annette Fay. The team also includes five Resource Partners (RPs) and several long-term project team members, including Communications Component Leader Ms. Leslie Rose and Senior Communications Specialists Ms. Wendy Putnam, Ms. Sue Hoye, and Mr. Russell. During the period from April 1, 2016, to September 30, 2016, the project team made significant progress in implementing the project's objectives. Key accomplishments include the development and maintenance of a database and tracking system for agency water programming, post-project M&E, and country water profiles. The team also provided technical support for analysis and reporting, access to water sector news and information, and designed, developed, and maintained a water-focused web portal. In addition, the project team supported USAID outreach in key global fora and other events, provided technical writing support for E3/W management operations, and utilized social media and multimedia tools to enhance communication and outreach. The project's progress was monitored and evaluated through regular meetings and reports, ensuring that the project remained on track to meet its objectives. The project's geographic focus is global, with a focus on supporting USAID's water and development strategy in various countries. The project's timeframes are aligned with the five-year contract period, with quarterly progress reports submitted to USAID. Recommendations for future project implementation include continued support for knowledge management and communication services, enhancement of the project's web portal, and expansion of the project's social media presence. Overall, the Water CKM Project has made significant progress in implementing its objectives, with a focus on enhancing knowledge management and communication services in support of the USAID Water and Development Strategy 2013-2018. The project's accomplishments demonstrate its commitment to improving health outcomes through sustainable WASH services and managing water for agriculture sustainably and more productively to enhance food security.