Monthly Progress Report No. 18 - September 2021: Architect-Engineer Independent Quality Assurance and Milestone Certification Services for USAID’s Federally Administered Tribal Areas Infrastructure and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Reconstruction Program (A-E FIP KPRP)

The program is implemented by CDM International, Inc. in association with National Development Consultants (Pvt.) Ltd. and UNICON Consulting Services (Pvt.) Ltd. (UNICON). The program's primary objective is to enhance the quality of life for the local population by providing access to basic services such as water, sanitation, and electricity. The program focuses on three key sectors: building, road, and mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP). The program's scope includes the design, construction, and testing of infrastructure projects, as well as the provision of training and capacity-building services to local stakeholders. As of September 2021, the program has made significant progress in achieving its objectives. In the KPRP sector, the program has completed 75% of the planned milestones, with a total of 15 projects completed and 10 projects under construction. The program has also conducted 25 field visits to monitor progress and ensure compliance with quality assurance (QA) plans. In the FIP sector, the program has completed 60% of the planned milestones, with a total of 10 projects completed and 5 projects under construction. The program has conducted 20 field visits to monitor progress and ensure compliance with QA plans. The program has also conducted periodic testing of materials to ensure compliance with QA standards. The program has also made significant progress in environmental compliance reporting. The program has conducted a review of the Environmental Due Diligence (EDF) and Environmental Management Plan (EMMP) for all projects, and has identified several issues and considerations that need to be addressed. The program has also conducted field visits to monitor environmental compliance and has made recommendations to improve environmental performance. In terms of gender reporting, the program has made significant progress in involving women in design and construction activities. The program has conducted field visits to monitor women's involvement in project activities and has identified several issues and considerations that need to be addressed. The program has also made recommendations to improve women's participation in project activities. Overall, the A-E FIP KPRP program has made significant progress in achieving its objectives and has demonstrated a strong commitment to quality assurance, environmental compliance, and gender reporting. The program's success is a testament to the effective collaboration between the program implementers, USAID, and local stakeholders.