Final evaluation of the healthy communities and municipalities II project : evaluation of the transfer, expansion, and sustainability of the healthy communities and municipalities model in Peru

Evaluation questions explore the model in design and practice; what behavioral changes are observed; the degree to which governments and actors adopted the model; the feasibility of other sectors adopting the model; and, how the model can contribute to achieving USAID Development Objectives. The evaluation uses a qualitative analysis that applies transfer and sustainability criteria to key informant interview data. Interviewees include representatives from communities, governments, health facilities, decentralized sectors, NGOs, and firms. The results indicate the MCS model is versatile and can be applied in full or in part, according to context. Empowered community management councils work with local government and health officials to achieve health and other objectives. Five actors led the model in different contexts: multiple levels of government, a national institution, local governments, NGOs and private firms. The model is apt for adoption by different sectors and by USAID. The education, agricultural and housing sectors are particularly well suited to adopt the model. USAID already employs the model to strengthen community governance under alternative development activities, and the model can similarly serve as a vehicle for public service management and community forest management under DO2 and DO3. Future results and sustainability can be strengthened through the increased participation of regional governments, strengthening government and community council capacities, and replicating the project’s success in identifying priority community demands as model entry points.