Project assistance completion report : agriculture policy analysis project (no. 517-0156)

The project established an Agricultural Policy Analysis Committee within the CNA with three public sector members and four private sector members. Beyond this, however, the project was unsuccessful. A major constraining factor was the 1986 change of government. Whereas the CNA had considerable authority under the previous administration, it became far less influential as the new government assigned the task of agricultural policy analysis to other organizations and private consultants. Other problems include the following. (1) Inflation and the low government salaries for economists made it extremely difficult to attract and retain well-qualified personnel. (2) Neither USAID/DR nor TA personnel had a direct role in the ongoing management and administration of activities. (3) The project lacked an institutional base on which to provide policy follow-up and long-term support. (4) The CNA"s analytical unit lacked the ability to carry out the planned 50-70 high-quality policy studies. Instead of limiting the number of studies conducted, the unit tried to meet the target with poor-quality studies of dubious importance. Several key lessons were learned. (1) Determine which public entity has the primary authority and best ability to set agricultural policies. (2) Involve well-qualified economists who have the capacity for substantive policy research. (3) Identify individuals (usually within universities) who are trained and experienced in agricultural policy analysis. Place more emphasis on the individuals than on particular universities. (4) Assess and secure several modes of financial support. (The project was unsuccessful in this area.) (5) Balance the agricultural policy research agenda with intersectoral as well as sectoral policy issues. (6) Perform policy studies and provide short-term TA in response to needs perceived by local policymakers.