Governance and Accountability

While simple indicators were applied in the first phase of the programme, and eventually expanded in the second phase, there has been only limited use of these during programme implementation. To improve the programme assessment and direct emphasis of activities in accordance with the present demand, qualitative and quantitative indicators should be developed. The Global Facility programme could play a key role in this process; as such indicators would be of benefit to all programmes.

The emphasis on tri-partite partnerships has been a key ingredient in the acceptance of PPP projects and added a needed level of transparency and accountability in the project identification and implementation. This approach is unique to PPPUE and should be a prominent component in the future.

UNDP Nepal was able to built synergies through the strong cooperation with partners within the programme and beyond, with other Government institutions, private sector associations, NGOs and donors. This has promoted the accountability of the programme.

At the same time though, the ongoing violent conflict in Nepal has escalated substantively. The programme has not been directly targeted and all projects have so far been largely unconstrained by the rebel and military activities. In some cases the private operator has been able to function in rebel controlled areas where the Government is no longer present illustrating the still existing potential for PPP service delivery in Nepal under these challenging circumstances. The programme has however been indirectly affected by the unstable political situation with a constant change of national and local governments. These challenges have in particular been a constraint for the lack of accountability of public sector performance. As a direct consequence the programme is using additional resources on public hearings and information programmes to ensure popular participation in the identification and selection of local level PPP's. All lessons above should also been seen in light of this situation.