The Gambia

NEX Workshop

Introduction:The workshop was held coinciding with a transition period in two areas, i) the inception of a new programming cycle (2007 – 2011) and/or the commencement of a number of new projects based on the Country Programme Document (CPD) and the Country Programme Action Plan (CPAP), ii) recruitment of UNDP and project staffs in response to the outcome of a recent re-profiling exercise and approval of new projects respectively. These two major developments called for an orientation workshop for the new staff with a view to put every body on the foundation for improved project planning and management.

The purpose of this report is to document and keep in records the proceedings and recommendations of the workshop for follow up actions. The objective was to brief the participants about National Execution (NEX) as it is recommended to be the dominant execution modality in the approved CPAP 2007 - 2011. The report outlines topics of the presentations and issues brought up by the participants during the various sessions. It will serve as a reference document for the day-to-day operations of staffs of UNDP and the Implementing Partners. Also, it can serve as a useful reference document for organizing similar and/or follow up workshops.

The workshop has given the participants the opportunity to be briefed about the various aspects of national Execution and to freely express their opinions about shortcomings in project management and make suggestions as to how to improve the situation.

Mr. Bashirou Jahumpa, UNDP Programme Specialist who introduced the members of the high table as well as the workshop programme, chaired the workshop.

In his opening remarks, Mr. Ebrima Camara, Permanent Secretary Office of the President, informed the gathering that his office is presently coordinating a Country Programme recently signed between the Government of The Gambia and UNDP. He reminded the participants that now management of programme resources is entrusted to nationals, therefore, each and every one is urged to do their utmost to use them wisely. In conclusion, he called all to understand that the Government is accountable to its donor partners.

Mr. Vitalie Muntean, UNDP Deputy Resident Representative, delivered his opening statement in the form of a powerpoint presentation. According to Mr. Muntean, the objective of his presentation is to give an overview of Programmatic and Legal frameworks for National Execution and provision of support services by the UNDP Country Office. Consequently, in his presentation, he dealt with issues such as definition of National Execution, 2007-2011 Country Programme Document (CPD), 2007-2011 CPAP, Project Document, Agreement for the Provision of Support services, and UNDP Financial Rules and Regulations.

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Click here to download Terminal Evaluation of NEX Project