Mid-term evaluation report : agricultural research and production project (AID project no. 367-0149)

External mid-term evaluation covers the period through 1/88. The project has created four new bodies within the existing research system: the Research Coordination Committee, the National Agricultural Research Services Center, the Farming Systems Division, and the Socio-Economics Division. Although development of these institutions has exceeded expectations, their linkages with and within the Departments of Agriculture and Livestock and Animal Health have been weak. The project needs to shift its emphasis from production-oriented activities to re-establishing and redefining these ties and upgrading research management. The project is continuing to strengthen the systems approach to research via use of the farming systems methodology and the input of socioeconomists into the research process. However, production activities in the hill areas have not had any appreciable impact, nor is it likely that any will be achieved in the remaining project period; these activities have focused on testing various technologies in several selected areas while ignoring information already obtained from similar tests. Moreover, no work has been done to develop appropriate extension methodologies for the hill areas. On the other hand, seed production activities have been effective in promoting multiplication and distribution of improved seed varieties in remote areas. The involvement of private producer/sellers appear to be key successful attributes. Monitoring, reporting, and coordination have been major project weaknesses. Baseline surveys have been implemented in selected areas for some programs but will not be capable of providing an overall evaluation of project impact. Reporting responsibilities have been divided, making it difficult for involved agencies to plan and coordinate activities. Coordination has been limited by insufficient staff and the lack of defined roles and responsibilities.