Experts activities and outputs:
1. Screened the potential sites for irrigation projects. The screening of the potential sites was done through two ways: review of existing projects proposals, and through a Call for Expression of Interest.
2. Carried out a first selection based on the “light” technical feasibility studies of individual projects. A methodology for this pre-selection was developed. Some of the project proposals were no longer relevant (project already executed, change of purpose of the land, etc.). Some of the project proposals received through the Call for Expression of Interest were not technically and financially feasible.
3. Carried out a second selection of the feasible projects. Methodology and selection criteria were proposed and agreed with MAFWE and the Contracting Authority. The most important criteria taken into consideration were the human and economic aspects, the presence of farmers in the areas, the need of irrigation facilities, readiness to invest on irrigation, readiness to organize themselves for the management of the irrigation scheme. Additional criteria used were cost-benefit analyses, potential for mitigation to climate change, environmental aspects, etc. The results of this second selection (ranking) were approved by MAFWE and the Contracting Authority. Priority was given to locations where land consolidation is taking place.
4. Revised and updated (where technical documentation already exists) or developed the technical documentation for the selected projects. During the development of the technical studies, final beneficiaries were closely involved and informed. Where several possible technical solutions were possible, final users were part of the decision making process, as the sustainability of these projects mainly depend on the willingness of users to maintain the irrigation schemes. Participatory approach was a key principal for the service contract. 5. Proposed and prepared the preferred type of tendering for each individual project as well as the needs for additional technical assistance (support to the establishment of effective management of the schemes, technical support related to agricultural production, etc.).
