Evaluation of UNDP Work with Least Developed Countries Fund & Sepcial Climate Change Fund Resources

2009

This report presents the findings of an independent evaluation of UNDP work with the Least Developed Countries Fund and Special Climate Change Fund resources carried out by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Evaluation Office. These funds were established under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change and operated by the Global Environment Facility. The evaluation assesses UNDP’s performance in supporting countries to access resources from the two funds, identifies issues and lessons, and makes recommendations for improvement. Specific issues examined include those related to the project cycle; quality, timeliness and efficiency of technical and managerial support; quality of project design and implementation; adequacy, effectiveness and quality of reporting and reporting arrangements; and the effectiveness and timeliness of communication between the various parties.

The evaluation found that there was justifiable dissatisfaction in the countries concerning the lengthy time periods and complex procedures required to move from the National Programmes of Action to concrete projects. In some cases, these have led to time lapses of several years before projects get off the ground. The evaluation identifies areas where efficiency gains could be obtained. There are also differing expectations amongst the different actors, including the programme countries and UNDP. The evaluation recommends an overall streamlining of the Least Developed Countries Fund and Special Climate Change Fund processes. Capacity development is needed in UNDP country offices especially to enhance their ability to support climate change adaptation. The lessons gained from work in this new area of vital concern must be harnessed to improve the performance of UNDP as one of the pioneering organizations working on climate change adaptation.

Full Report