Carefully consider the implications of different acquisition approaches for project evaluations. The original evaluator selected to implement an impact evaluation of the Lusaka Water Supply, Sanitation, and Drainage (LWSSD) project was engaged via an Interagency Agreement (IAA). This arrangement proved difficult in practice given the divergent interests between the parties, with MCC being most interested in evaluation of the LWSSD project and the IAA partner having broader research interests. While partnerships with research entities with robust technical credentials can provide substantial value and rigor to evaluations, any unresolved divergence in priorities and interests between research and evaluation can be difficult to reconcile. MCC should carefully consider its needs when weighing the pros and cons of various acquisition and/or partnership approaches, ensuring agreements are structured to best serve MCC’s independent evaluation function.
Lesson Learned