Technical support, policy analysis and training

The project focuses support on GOES initiatives in tax administration, integrated financial management financial sector reform, privatization, municipal development, private sector support, and strengthening democracy. The evaluation, conducted by an independent consultant, aimed at providing an assessment of project development responsiveness to GOES needs and the adequacy of management procedures employed. Major findings and recommendations are: (1) The project has contributed effectively to GOES priority needs, its management has been sound, and no major changes in the project or its administration appear needed. (2) As the project enters its final three years, focus should he given to how the project might contribute in the transition to a new GOES administration and a new role generally for the USAID program in El Salvador. (3) Separate semi-annual reviews should be considered for the larger activities under the project. (4) Consideration should be given to strengthening advisory functions of project-funded personnel now located in the Mission by locating them in counterpart agencies or otherwise linking them more closely with counterparts. The evaluation noted the following lessons. (1) Every USAID country program should have a flexible instrument like this project. (2) Criteria for what activities are to be included under such a project need to be as clear as possible and well understood by the USAID Mission and host country to facilitate efficient programming and budgeting. (3) Because individual activities inevitably receive less management attention under such a project, the implications for management need to be carefully considered when setting criteria and selecting activities to be included. (Author abstract)