Mid-Term Review of the AGIR Programme - Sida

2 F I N D I N G S
The mid-term review confirms some of the results of two broad partner satisfaction
assessments undertaken earlier in 2012 by Diakonia and Oxfam using a common
methodology. 24 In line with the partner satisfaction assessments by Diakonia and
Oxfam, the review team’s interviews suggest that partner satisfaction with training is
higher amongst new/nursery partners than amongst more experienced/core partners.
The review team’s interviews also seem to suggest a somewhat higher satisfaction
with SCC training, which might result from working with direct local partners, longer
training sessions of one week, and more tailor-made training. In general, however, all
intermediaries have provided some tailor-made training.
Furthermore, the review team has noted that there is very limited replication of training
at the provincial level where capacity is generally substantially lower than at the
central level. The experience of SCC and its approach with direct partnerships at the
provincial level demonstrates a marked difference in relation to the capacities of local
representations of AGIR partners (e.g. Electoral Observatory), which have had limited
benefit from AGIR training. Is this context, Forum Mulher is an exception, in
that they have provided adequate capacity development of a provincial female partner
network in Tete (NAFET), which is operating on a voluntary basis. This training is
skills-oriented and includes locally relevant themes, e.g. how to apply for funds
through the District Development Fund.
Although the partner organisations contacted by the mid-term review team have suggested
some changes to capacity strengthening, what has been done has generally
been relevant and particularly useful to the CSOs in the following fields:
Administration, financial/results-based management. The partners are receiving
ready assistance from intermediaries when needed and are using this
to reform their organisations. It has been noted that there is a manual on results-based
management - a key element in project design and funding – that
furthers the improvement of the quality of project proposals and the potential
for funding.
Results-based monitoring and evaluation. Partners find these courses interesting
and relevant. However, most find they have substantial difficulties in
applying this training and feel that they need considerable assistance in this
field (which is received on request).
Gender training. Some partners are currently working on their gender policies
or are preparing to submit the gender policy for approval at their next
general assembly. Many state that their organisation practices gender equality,
24 Diakonia and Oxfam have carried out overall qualitative partner satisfaction assessments in 2012
using the same basic methodology, measuring satisfaction with process and impact within different
dimensions: 1)Access to intermediary; 2)Confidence with Intermediary; 3)Readiness of Interme-
diary; 4)Tangibility; 5)Competence; 6)Results.
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