USAID/Nicaragua final performance evaluation of the Nicaragua media program (NMP) : final report

NMP was a cross-cutting program that sought to strengthen the viability of independent media in Nicaragua while improving its ability to produce and disseminate quality information supporting USAID development programs. NMP assisted media outlets in 12 cities and two autonomous regions where other USAID development programs are being implemented. The program's objective was to help independent media outlets improve their content and production quality. Support involved providing grants, each ranging from $10,000 to $15,000, to media outlets and non-governmental organizations (NGOs). NMP sought to advance U.S. interests and universal democratic and human rights through public diplomacy and support for independent media. The program reinforced the mission's goals of: (1) empowering NGOs; (2) promoting economic growth, with equity to private sector-led growth and market-led agriculture; (3) implementing the Dominican Republic-Central America-United States Free Trade Agreement (CAFTA-DR); (4) supporting at-risk youth; (5) preventing school drop-out; promoting reading to children; and (6) supporting democratic governance and citizen participation. NMP was integral to USAID/Nicaragua's Strategic Objective 1 of Ruling Justly: More Responsive, Transparent Governance. The evaluation of NMP was conducted during the period of July-August 2013, by a team assembled by Mendez, England & Associates (ME&A). The evaluation team consisted of two experts -- one international and one local -- both with experience in the media sector. The main objective of the evaluation was to provide an objective review of NMP in strengthening the viability of independent media in Nicaragua while also improving its ability to produce and disseminate quality information supporting USAID development programs. An integral part of the evaluation mission was to answer a set of pre-determined questions. The findings and conclusions reached will be used to help USAID/Nicaragua make management decisions in a changing political environment and whether, when, and how to continue future support to the Nicaraguan media sector. (Excerpt, modified)