Mutual reinforcement: combining project outputs with capacity development outcomes for service delivery

摘要

Capacity development of permanent local institutions is needed to improve the sustainability ofinvestments made in the water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) sector. To check capacity developmentintentions, development partners (DPs) can ask the question “What capacities are you developing andwhy?” This will verify that capacity development is being done with precise objectives, and is alignedwith institutional needs and role definitions. DPs can use implementation and capacity developmentobjectives as mutually reinforcing opportunities to support strong project outputs as well as to improveoutcomes for service delivery. Two particular techniques for capitalizing on this duality are highlighted:supporting implementers, and supporting reflective learning. Examples of practical combinations ofcapacity development approaches are presented from the perspective of Engineers Without BordersCanada working in collaboration with other DPs and with district governments in Malawi’s WASHsector.