Final Report: USAID/Albania Evaluation

The evaluation covers the period from 2012 to 2016 and aims to identify major achievements and challenges encountered while implementing the projects. The evaluation assesses the organizational strengthening of the implementing partners, the results of the three projects, and the extent to which the USAID projects have provided the best possible modalities for reaching the intended objectives. The evaluation was conducted by a three-person team from Risk&Audit Consulting and employed four main criteria to assess the projects' results: relevance, effectiveness, efficiency, and sustainability. The evaluation approach and methodology included desk reviews, site visits, semi-structured group and individual interviews with stakeholders, and focus group discussions with stakeholders and client/beneficiaries. The analysis is based on a synthesis and triangulation of information obtained from these evaluation activities. Key findings indicate that implementing partners have received trainings on strategic planning, produced administrative and compliance manuals, and improved their financial reporting and compliance procedures. The USAID branding provisions have built the image and reputation of local organizations, and the type of contract Fund Obligation Grant (FOG) has given more freedom and flexibility to implementing partners in defining project activities and geographical coverage. However, significant time has been allocated to build internal control systems, produce financial reports, and comply with USAID rules and regulations, hindering the organizational sustainability of implementing partners. The type of agreement "Cooperative Agreement" between IPs and USAID Albania has allowed for a higher level of intrusion from USAID Albania, which has hindered the financial independence of implementing partners. The sustainability of implementing partners is also a concern, as they are mainly dependent on a single donor (USAID/Albania) and have little experience in fundraising and getting donor support for project ideas. However, the CBS has tackled the sustainability issue by designing and pursuing a vigorous Sustainability Plan, which ensures financial sustainability through revenues generated by different sources. The projects' findings indicate that all three projects were found to be of high relevance, with virtually all activities fitting well within national priorities and strategies and being consistent with the needs of beneficiaries and implementing partners. There is also evidence of effectiveness and achievement of objectives for all the projects, despite challenges in the social, economical, and political context in Albania. USAID Albania/Assist Impact achieved important results for the BHIC project through contribution to strengthening capacity of institutions, governmental, non-governmental, and private sector, as well as leaders and technical experts who played a key role in Albania's development and its road to European integration. The evaluation concludes that the projects have made significant contributions to Albania's development, but there are areas for improvement, particularly in terms of organizational sustainability and financial independence of implementing partners. The evaluation provides recommendations for future work of USAID/Albania with local implementing partners, including the need for more flexibility in project design and implementation, the importance of building the capacity of implementing partners, and the need for more effective communication and collaboration between USAID Albania and implementing partners.