Midterm evaluation of Eritrean health and population project (project #661-006) -- IQC# AEP-0085-I-00-6018-00, delivery order no. 803

Interim evaluation covers the period 9/94-12/97. During the first 2 years (Phase I), the project focused on building capacity at the zonal and central levels to enable the health system to more effectively use and absorb assistance to be provided during Phase II. For the most part, Phase I objectives were realistic, given the project"s time frame and its regional focus. The contracts, delivery orders, scopes of work, results to date, and 1998 work plans from the cooperating agencies are supportive of the overall mandate of the project. The TA provided by USAID and the Cooperating Agencies to the Ministry of Health (MOH) has been relevant to and supportive of project goals and objectives. Some Phase I activities, such as the integrated management of childhood illness (IMCI), were begun early. Others, such as those relating to health financing, are still in very early stages of development, and the health management information systems and logistics activities have yet to be completed. Several activities have been completed successfully. A cadre of personnel has received training in strategic planning, management information systems, primary health care, family planning/reproductive health, and information, education, and communications. This has resulted in an enhanced capacity of the MOH to deliver essential health and family planning services in the focus zones. There is clear evidence that the MOH"s capacity to produce action plans at the central and zonal levels has been increased. There are very few indicators of impact, due to the lack of related health statistics. However, the 1995 Demographic and Health Survey established some important baseline measurements. It is anticipated that the follow-on DHS could provide relevant and appropriate progress on impact. A major recommendation is to extend the project from 1/99 to 12/01.