CAREC Transport Corridor 1 (Zhambyl Oblast Section) Investment Program - Tranche 1

Need for further improvement of the executing agency's project management capacity. Inadequate knowledge on the part of Ministry of Transport and Communications and Committee for Roads relating to safeguards and procurement, and a lack of staff with appropriate expertise were major factors affecting smooth project implementation, and ultimately resulted in stakeholder complaints. Some improvement has been observed in the executing agency's project management capacity as a result of internal restructuring; establishment of a new unit for financial management; involvement of local authorities in efficient, close monitoring of projects; and adoption of a new national transport sector program. Nonetheless, providing continuous support for building capacity and enhancing knowledge to the executing agency and the newly established KazAvtoZhol Open Joint Stock Company is important, particularly for procurement, safeguards, and administration of contracts for civil works and consulting services.