Annual Report on Japan's ODA Evaluation 2022

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(2) Recommendations and Lessons Learned for the Grant Aid (Economic and Social Development Programme) by MOFA<Lessons Learned> Grant Aid by MOFA (Economic and Social Development Programme) as a tool to support overseas business development of Japanese companiesThe Grant Aid (Economic and Social Development Programme) implemented by MOFA is characterized by its ability to proceed consistently from the preparation of bidding documents to the conclusion of contracts solely through procedures by the procuring agency, which leads to project speed and simplicity. In addition, the fact that performance bonds are not required and that the projects are mainly for Japanese products have been favorably received by Japanese companies. In conclusion, the “Grant Aid (Economic and Social Development Programme)” scheme can be a useful tool to support the overseas business development of Japanese companies. To this end, it is important to strategically consider how to support the overseas business development of Japanese companies through projects, the content of products, and the purpose of the procured equipment.Annual Report on Japan’s ODA Evaluation 202218Procured buoy in Port of Trincomaleeeconomic development in the area surrounding the Port of Trincomalee to make use of the results of this Project in the future. In considering the strategy, it is desirable to consider collaboration with the “Japan-ASEAN Connectivity initiatives being promoted by Japan in neighboring countries.Initiative” and other <Recommendations> More proactive dissemination of information on projectsIt is recommended that information about projects is more actively disseminated to ensure transparency and promote public understanding of ODA. Clarification of project objectives and the logic model for achieving effectivenessIf the project objectives and the logic model for achieving the effects are unclear at the planning stage, there is a concern that differences of opinion may arise among the relevant parties regarding the objectives redefined after the fact, making it difficult to derive convincing evaluation results. In particular, there are many cases where diplomatic effects are difficult to redefine, and the timing of evaluations may not be appropriate (a longer period of time is needed for the effects to manifest), which may also be controversial. Regarding the above issues, it is recommended that efforts should be made to clarify the objectives and logic when planning the “Grant Aid (Economic and Social Development Programme)” scheme projects, and that the process of consideration is recorded and preserved.Provided vessel