Urban functions in rural development, Upper Volta : final report

To this end, the project undertook to identify over 50 central services provided in 1,300 villages and centers; to analyze them in some detail in 108 settlements; and with local help to evaluate performance in 44 selected centers comprising the most significant villages and the bulk of available functions. This final project report provides an overview of the economy, agriculture, and population of Upper Volta; an analysis of agriculture, population, settlement patterns, and rural development functions in the eastern and center-west regions; a summary of the project"s findings; and recommendations for enhancing local government service capabilities. It was found that while rural services and supporting facilities are reasonably well distributed and generally well staffed, none are working efficiently due to disrepair, poor equipment, and lack of supplies, a situation caused mainly by the sheer lack of available public money. Since attempting a total restoration of these services would be a waste of donor funds and would have no lasting effect, it is recommended that assistance be accorded cantons (seven candidates are identified) that demonstrate an ability to maintain and supply their own service facilities through locally collected funds. A recommended 3-4 year restoration and renewal program includes dispensary buildings, canton offices, rest houses, and expanded schools. Also recommended are construction of granaries and lodgings for local public servants and weekly mail service. Greater mobility for subprefects, establishment of a postal agency, and guaranteed staffing of canton education and health facilities are also suggested. It is emphasized that the community should decide which facilities are to be supported. In a brief postscript, two USAID/UV projects with components similar to those in the above recommendations are identified, as are the efforts undertaken to coordinate them. A list of 24 references (1977081) in English and French is appended, along with a note on methods and monographs of the principal villages.