Allow flexibility where possible in contracting method for infrastructure works. The interim evaluation observed that for this compact, “design and build” was a more effective approach than “design-bid-build” for contracting the infrastructure works. The first tranche of projects were procured through a “design-bid-build” process through which, MCA-Cabo Verde contracted with a single responsible entity that designed the project and then bid the construction services out to a third party, which remained responsible for the implementation of the project. In Cabo Verde, many municipal governments submitted projects with relatively weak designs. MCA-Cabo Verde had to support these municipalities to strengthen their designs, which were not very strong, and then bid out and procure the construction component, which took more time. Whereas, the second tranche used a “design and build” approach, which along with greater support and supervision from MCA technicians in the design phase, enabled the works to proceed more quickly. This approach may also have been effective because the works were relatively straightforward, of short duration and had minimal resettlement which could be managed effectively. Having the flexibility to change its approach to contracting the works based on its experiences from the first tranche helped to minimize some of the MCA’s challenges in implementing this activity.
Lesson Learned