Strengthening health planning capacity project evaluation, June 24-July 17, 1987

Mid-term evaluation covered the period through 7/87 and was based on a review of project documents, indepth interviews with MOH and project staff, and site visits in four provinces. Major steps have been taken in upgrading the DEP, especially with regard to: the development of policies, procedures, and plans; training of key personnel; and coordination. The success of the project has been due, in part, to the priority accorded to PHC by the Burkinabe government (GOB) and to participative, coordinated decisionmaking from the ministerial to the village level. Further, the GOB"s emphasis on rational planning in all sectors has drawn the DEP, one of the earliest GOB planning units created, into the unusual and important position of influencing policies, structures, and planning methods throughout the GOB. The DEP has also been continuously active in developing a national network of planning/programming/monitoring/evaluating activities through direct and continuous collaboration with all other MOH directorates, with provincial health services teams, and with the services responsible for organizing and supporting the extensive village health worker (VHW) program. Given this positive environment, A.I.D."s investment in the DEP has proven highly cost-effective. Immediate upon their arrival, the TA team was drawn into the work of their counterparts. Although some personal difficulties have been encountered, in general the team has worked cooperatively with GOB counterparts, producing an impressive amount of analysis, on-the-job training, and technical materials and assistance, most of which has focused on urgent issues and requirements for PHC planning. USAID/B"s backstopping has been excellent - thorough, positive, and timely. Major recommendations are to: information system (NHIS) by improving feedback, distributing a revised user"s guide, and publishing annual reports in a timely manner; establish advisory comittees for operations research and the health documentation center to set policies and provide guidance; strengthen the MOH"s evaluation committee by conducting practical training workshops for its members and by the designation of deputies to attend meetings when necessary; and expand the training of provincial MOH personnel in essential management skills required for implementing programs.