USAID/SOUTH SUDAN MESP FY 2021 QUARTER 1 PERFORMANCE REPORT

As part of this effort, MESP produced geographical maps to create a better understanding of the spatial distribution of activities implemented by USAID and other donors. The maps, which were printed and submitted to the COR, depict targeted areas under the new strategic framework, PfRR locations, actual versus projected IDP returns, population estimates, frequency of abduction of aid workers, and IPC levels. MESP also facilitated a kickoff workshop for the Mission's learning plan and supported Technical Offices through a series of sessions to develop and refine their learning questions and learning outcomes. Additionally, MESP conducted Data Quality Assessments (DQAs) for two custom indicators reported by Democracy International/SUCCESS activity, which met USAID data quality standards. However, the IP was advised to document data collection procedures in the Performance Indicator Reference Sheets (PIRS). Throughout the first quarter of fiscal year 2021, MESP delivered Remote Third-Party Monitoring (RTPM) debrief notes and presentations to the Mission and IPs about monitoring findings for Health/WASH, Economic Growth, Democracy and Governance, and Bureau of Humanitarian Assistance activities. MESP also collaborated with the International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI) to deliver findings of the agriculture assessment conducted to assess future investment options for the agriculture sector and examine major impediments to growth in the targeted locations. A virtual Pause & Reflect (P&R) for TPM was held on December 10 to assess key lessons and opportunities for improvement. Discussions centered around the viability of the RTPM approach, the efficacy of community monitors, and the implications of COVID-19 on IP service delivery. MESP continued to share weekly scenario reports with the Mission, which included updates about the security situation, commodity food prices, and COVID-19 awareness. In mid-December, the Mission Director advised MESP to give the highest priority to implementing a baseline survey in the 13 counties in which USAID is implementing its activities. MESP and USAID conducted a series of meetings to identify possible options for reconfiguring the MESP Statement of Work (SOW) and budget to accommodate commencing the baseline survey in six "flood-prone" counties. It is expected that this activity will commence early in the second quarter. MESP's key accomplishments during the first quarter of fiscal year 2021 include holding a virtual Pause & Reflect (P&R) for TPM, delivering findings of the agriculture assessment, facilitating a kickoff workshop for the Mission's learning plan, monitoring 99 activities for BHA, DG, Health, and WASH/GBV in 16 counties, conducting DQAs for two PPR indicators, printing and submitting high-resolution sector-specific geographic maps, producing individual county maps, continuing to provide weekly scenario updates, and helping to institute knowledge management and organizational learning in the Mission. However, MESP faced several challenges during the first quarter, including the current global COVID-19 pandemic, which implied no field trips could be conducted for TPM for direct observation and verification. Staff coordination was also challenging at times due to staff working from home until mid-December, which affected the preparation of deliverables. Poor phone network coverage and high telephone costs also affected data collection during RTPM. To address these challenges, MESP and the Mission should continue operating with close communication and flexibility, reflecting the challenges of the environment, including the continuing flooding, the COVID-19 crisis, and the conflict circumstances of South Sudan. Early planning is essential for successful RTPM, and MESP should request the AOR to facilitate receipt of required information from partners when IPs delay responding to TPM requests.