Nepal Rapti Zone rural area development project (no. 367-0129) : final evaluation

Final A.I.D./Nepali evaluation covers the period 10/80-9/85 and is based on document review, project observation, and interviews with project personnel, beneficiaries, and others. The project as designed was overly complex and disparate, its components separated rather than strongly linked and focused on project purposes; as a result, management was fragmented. The project has not been able to meet its - often unrealistic - targets in any critical area; nonetheless, it has contributed substantially (especially during 1984-85) to strengthening district and village capacity to plan and manage development resources and resulted in increased availability and use of national delivery services. Also, although inputs (54% of planned levels were reached) were used disproportionately for building construction and to support host government operations and were not focused on key production sectors, specific project achievements have included: increased numbers of agricultural extension, technical, and forestry staff; road upgrading; strengthening of cropping systems research; and provision of agricultural credit, appropriate technology, village adult education, and production credit for rural women. A strong foundation has been laid for future improvements in agricultural production and natural resource conservation. Moreover, private, local-level resources have been mobilized and combined with new technologies to boost (in many instances) productivity, income, and quality of life. Recommendations are to close out the project and initiate Phase II with sharper focus on (1) continued support for increasing district- and village-level development management capabilities, (2) expanding and strengthening natural resource management programs, and (3) concentrating resources efficiently and effectively on agricultural production in valley and hill areas. USAID/N should try to supplement and reinforce project resources through linkages with other donor projects in the zone. Specific recommendations are also provided.