Final evaluation : operational program grant USAID-G-492-1650, integrated rural development program, Solomon Islands, April 1, 1982-Jun 30, 1985

The OPG was ably administered, although office space was crowded and a small truck is needed, especially given the new FSP Training Center at New Koleula and the rapid growth of small projects. FSP recruited 3 of 8 targeted field personnel (and is using its 6 women"s workers in SCC) and formed 1 of 6 targeted mobile teams. Of 139 SCC projects supported in 1984, 45 were income-generating (piggery, poultry, bakery, etc.), representing a marked increase in both quantity and quality (the latter due to training at the new FSP center for FSP field staff, project holders, and women leaders) over 1983, when WI funds for income-generating projects were limited. Other SCC projects include a planned marketing center on Malaita, two businesses to promote charcoal stoves, and solar lighting at New Koleula (a first for the Solomons). Overall, the projects are working well. Of the 20 visited, only the poultry project at the Malaita women"s club had collapsed - after the chickens were stolen at Christmas, 1984. Reasons for success include able project leaders, the practice of working with family groups, carefully choosing and training project holders, making continued support dependent on good use of that already given, and follow-up by FSP staff. The WI program was highly successful. With targets in the number of visits to women"s clubs and in training workshops exceeded and met, respectively, the number of active clubs increased greatly, and many now have income (although only 18 new clubs were formed vs. an unrealistic target of 87). After a slow start, income-generating activities are well ahead of target, possibly due in part to SCC. FSP also helped organize resources for women from public and private entities and is trying to counter male jealousy by inviting men to the workshops. Data collection problems make it impossible to quantify program success. The VF program collapsed when the responsibilities of the Fisheries Division, FSP"s intended partner, devolved to provincial offices. FSP now works only with private groups. Yet overall, the funds expended earlier were well used. The program"s most notable success - establishment of a small business (now employing 59 people) to build eskies, etc. - came as a side benefit. Fishing activities under SCC have included, inter alia, help for 8 fishing groups (by 6/85) and construction of 3 fishing boats.