Methods for evaluating the nutritional impact of food aid projects: lessons from past experience; Note for the record: comments on the paper Methods for evaluating the nutritional impact of food and aid projects: lessons from past experience by David Sahn (2 papers)
Sahn, D.E.; Ghassemi, H.
Food and Nutrition Bulletin 6(3): 1-14; 14-16
1984
ISSN/ISBN: 0379-5721 Document Number: 268952
The first paper (Sahn) identifies obstacles and misconception that have plagued evaluation of food project aid (excluding emergency relief) using examples from previous and current World Food Programme and PL 480 Title II evaluation studies. Evaluation has frequently been hindered by problem areas in planning and administration of food aid. Past definitions of objectives have not always been clear and there have been difficulties with project design. Sometimes projects have not been based on a solid hypothesis and they have also suffered from poor implementation. There have also been various methodological problems in evaluation, contributing to qualitative, incomplete and inadequate evaluations. Two important lines of action are recommended: a number of indepth studies should be designed and conducted to gain a better insight into programme costs and effects, and into proper indicators for evaluation; and a solid, carefully designed mechanism for evaluation and monitoring should be built into such projects. Ghassemi then discusses these arguments concluding that it is important to consider the various purposes of evaluation. Specific suggestions for ways of overcoming the obstacles and misconceptions of project food aid evaluations are then presented.