A joint evaluation synthesis

Learning event organized by the Independent Office of Evaluation of IFAD and the Office of Evaluation of FAO

Over the last ten years, IFAD and FAO have carried out significant work in most areas of pastoral development. Important achievements have been obtained which need to be recognized, particularly given the considerable challenges of implementing pastoral development projects. Overall though, the results give a fragmented and mixed picture across the sample. On the other hand, the potential is huge. In the face of growing challenges posed by climate change, as well as new economic and political realities, pastoralism offers a production system which prospers in environments where other livelihood systems are at their limit or require large investments.

This event was an opportunity to discuss the issues arising from a recent joint evaluation synthesis report on FAO's and IFAD's engagement with pastoral development prepared by the Office of Evaluation of FAO (OED) and the Independent Office of Evaluation of IFAD (IOE). It also provided a venue to present and discuss the main findings and recommendations from the Joint Evaluation Synthesis as well as to discuss challenges and opportunities, and the way forward for the two organizations work in pastoral development.

Practical implications of implementing the recommendations was explored through the presentation of two case studies (one from each agency) illustrating some of the key issues faced while working on pastoral development. The presentations was followed by break out discussion groups.