At appraisal and during implementation, establishing demand-driven agricultural advisory centers and MIUs (market intelligence units) that were autonomous from government was seen as an essential project component. There was a desire for the organizations to be on a secure financial footing with farmers contracted to pay for advice they received. However, the transfer of project vehicles and equipment procured for them to government agencies, including MOA (Ministry of Agriculture), risks the centers' sustainability. At design or during implementation, steps need to be taken to clarify the future ownership of such assets. Alternatively, no attempt should be made to establish these types of organizations if it is possible they will operate only during implementation.
Rural Development Project