Institutional analysis for ASDG planning

The management of the grant has, on the whole, been considered successful. The program has shown itself to be a satisfactory vehicle for policy reform; proved to be a relatively versatile and flexible mechanism for strengthening on-going activities; and contributed to the start of new projects with various donors in the country. However, a key problem has been the Government of Niger"s (GON) insufficient capacity to efficiently manage the development programs in its charge. Specific problems include: cumbersome GON administrative procedures; insufficient supply of skilled managers and analysts; conflicts among donor financial management requirements and the burdens that these impose on a weak GON system; and a lack of resources and authority by regions and subregions. A key finding is that USAID/Niger should support GON efforts to promote decentralization in Phase II, through (1) developing a training program for regional project managers and (2) supporting GON efforts to develop and implement the Code Rural, the GON"s natural resource management policy.