On 7 September, the Independent Office of Evaluation (IOE) held a knowledge-sharing seminar to present and discuss the main findings and recommendations arising from the recent evaluation synthesis report on the support provided by IFAD to livelihoods involving aquatic resources from Small-scale Fisheries, Small-scale Aquaculture and Coastal Zones.

The Synthesis draws on the evaluations of all aquatic resources-relevant projects supported by IFAD since 2009. In addition, the report provides an analysis of the evolution of IFAD's portfolio in terms of aquatic resources-relevant projects since 1979, when the first project in this sector was approved.

The objectives of this evaluation synthesis were to assess the extent of IFAD’s work in support of these sectors and generate findings, documenting lessons, good practices and challenges that can inform the design and implementation of ongoing and future policies, strategies and investments by IFAD  in these sectors.

The workshop was attended by the Associate Vice-Presidents of the Strategy and Knowledge Department and the External Relations and Governance Department of IFAD, IFAD Directors, technical experts in fisheries, and staff as well as colleagues from the evaluation offices and fisheries divisions of FAO and WFP.