Report of the external review of the International Irrigation Management Institute

External evaluation covers the period 1/85- 1/90. IIMI performs an important function and effectively complements the efforts of other IARC's. The institution is engaged in an impressive array of research projects for such a young organization, and its activities have gained the respect of both donors and collaborators. In addition to its Colombo headquarters, IIMI now has field programs in Pakistan, Nepal, Bangladesh, India, Morocco, Sudan, and the Philippines. There is also a regional office in Burkina Faso, and consideration is being given to developing programs in five West African countries. A project in Indonesia was completed in 1989 and work is expected to resume in 1990. IIMI is generally well organized and managed, with a distinguished Board of Governors representing 11 countries and a good balance of disciplines. However, IIMI's current administrative structure, under which programmatic responsibilities are separated into three divisions, seems to be contributing to a fragmentation of effort and a lack of a cohesive, well-coordinated program. IIMI's financial situation is also a matter for concern. The large percentage of restricted funds in IIMI's budget could constrain its ability to address high priority needs. Many donor projects supported with restricted funds do not adequately cover indirect costs. is, IIMI faces a likely budget shortfall in 1990, calling into question the wisdom of its expansion plans. IIMI training efforts have been somewhat limited but are expected to improve with the recent employment of a full-time training officer. Good progress has been made in implementing a sound information program, and IIMI already possesses an impressive list of publications for an organization of its size and stage of development. During the past three years, IIMI utilized an excellent planning process to prepare strategic and operational plans for the next several years. However, these plans are very broad, and it is suggested that IIMI narrow the focus of its primary program efforts.