EVALUATION REPORT OF THE LIVESTOCK AND RANGE MANAGEMENT PORTION OF THE GUIDIMAKA I.R.D. PROJECT 682-0201-1-SELIBABY 10TH REGION, MAURITANIA

This special evaluation, which is attached to a PES facesheet (PD-AAG-638-B1) and another special evaluation (PD-AAG-638-C1), covers the period 9/77-5/80 and is based on a review of documents and an onsite visit. There were relatively few livestock, and these tended to be in fair to poor condition. The Guidimaka was obviously overgrazed and was below average in rainfall. The project has made very limited progress due to a combination of factors: (1) The project paper and Pro Ag were very vague, providing less than technically sound recommendations. (2) The project management and implementation staff did not have the technical knowledge to supplement and correct the PP design. (3) The remote location of the project site magnified all the other problems. Accomplishments include: assignment of all advisors; completion of 90% of the planned project housing; fencing and clearing of three agronomic units; fencing of a range demonstration unit (450 ha) and 25 ha of forest research lands; cultivation of a forest and garden nursery; installation of wells; and acquisition of vehicles, livestock and commodities. The author concludes that the project outputs should be limited to a few interventions aimed at increasing economic efficiency. Also range, animal, and social data should be collected for the development of a technological production package. Lack of adequate backstopping from Pacific Consultants caused many difficulties for the PC team. An experienced person with a strong livestock-range-agricultural background is needed to consult with the project team on a periodic or full-time basis. The project should be extended to 12/82. Detailed recommendations for a revised project are outlined.