NUTRITION PROGRAM

Evaluation covers the period 10/79-10/80 and is based on onsite review. Loan disbursements accelerated markedly since the last evaluation (67% as of 9/30/80 compared to 33% as of 9/30/79). Utilizing the findings of last year"s annual USAID-Government of Costa Rica evaluation, the executive director of the program has submitted a proposal to reprogram and modify the project. Under this proposal, all nutrition information activities will be incorporated into one component. Also, the information budget will be increased to permit the purchase of computer hardware. The budget for the research component will be increased to permit work to continue on the development of food products and to continue breastfeeding studies and studies into the causes of diarrhea. The training component (which has had mixed success) and the education component (which has had little success) will be combined. The potable water component will continue, but at a slightly reduced budgeting level. The logistical problems which delayed this activity have been resolved. The Peace Corps will assume responsiblity for installation of water pumps. The Mission reviewed these modifications and has determined that they appropriately address the project"s problem areas. The present terminal disbursement date is 4/23/81. The Mission will request authority from A.I.D./W to extend the date to 3/30/82.