NATIONAL NUTRITION PLANNING

Evaluation covers the period 1/76-12/80 and is based on an audit review of files, interviews with project staff, and site visits. Project achievements are few; only 68% of the project funds have been disbursed. The lack of implementation experience of the project-created Sistema de Analisis/Planificacion de Alimentacion/Nutricion (SAPLAN), along with the project"s complex design, led to poor overall management and little coordination with other involved GOH agencies. Project monitoring was also unsatisfactory -- some 14 months have elapsed since USAID has visited project sites. The limited success of many activities stemmed from procurement problems such as unrealistic timeframes and inadequate selection and utilization of equipment. A fish demonstration research center was constructed, but was of too poor quality to be accepted, while 3 of 12 planned warehouses were not constructed after one of the contractors claimed bankruptcy. Despite these setbacks, a nutrition surveillance system was designed and is successfully operating in Danli. The plan to train SAPLAN staff in nutrition was revised to train only 300 promoters per year. A few seminars were held, but the participants were not counted. Several F/N radio commercials were created and broadcasted, and audiovisual equipment was purchased, although it has not yet been installed. Using revolving loans, community-level subprojects (SP"s) were completed in 64 villages, and 107 SP"s are underway. These SP"s have led to increased soy production and have laid the foundation for aquaculture expansion. Other accomplishments, however, have been limited. Recommendations are to: not compensate the GOH for equipment funds disbursed without proper authorization; have SAPLAN review the current procedures for revolving loans and obtain a signed agreement for every SP financed; and have USAID re-estimate the end-of-project disbursement status and begin deobligating funds, if needed.