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INTERIM NARRATIVE REPORT

Sankalpa Collaborative Commitment for Participatory and

Gender Responsive Budgets

Contract Number: DCI-NSAPVD/2013/335-222

Submitted by CARE April 2016

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Table of Contents 0. Acronyms and Abbreviations .................................................................................................. 2

1. Description ............................................................................................................................. 3

2. Assessment of implementation of Action Activities ................................................................. 4

2.1 Executive Summary of the Action ....................................................................................... 4

2.2. Results and Activities ........................................................................................................ 7

Interface Activities (ER1 &ER2) .........................................................................................15

2.2.2. Reasons for delays, cancellation, postponement of activities ..................................21

2.2.3. Modifications in planned activities ............................................................................21

2.2.5. Results of the Action: Outputs, Outcomes and Impacts ...........................................22

2.3. Logframe ..........................................................................................................................24

2.4. Updated action plan .........................................................................................................24

3. Beneficiaries/affiliated entities and other Cooperation ...........................................................26

3.1. Partners and other Cooperation .......................................................................................26

3.2. Relationship with State Authorities ...................................................................................26

3.3. Relationship with Other Organisations .............................................................................26

3.4. Links and Synergies Developed with Other Actions .........................................................27

3.5. Previous relevant EU grants .............................................................................................27

4. Visibility .................................................................................................................................27

Annexes ....................................................................................................................................28

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0. Acronyms and Abbreviations

ADA Austrian Development Agency AIP Activity Implementation Plan AR&RM Annual Review and Reflection Meeting CAC Citizen Awareness Centre CBO Community Based Organization CBS Central Bureau of Statistics CFUG Community Forest User Group CSB Community Score Board CSO Civil Society Organizations CSP Community Support Program DAGs Disadvantaged Groups DAO District Administration Office DADO District Agriculture Development Office DDC District Development Committee DGRBC District Gender Responsive Budget Committee DAIP Detail Annual Implementation Plan DHO District Health Office DPAC District Project Advisory Committee DDRC District Disaster Risk Reduction Committee DRR Disaster Risk Reduction DPO District Police office DSMC District Social Mobilization Committee EU European Union FGD Focus Group Discussion GBV Gender based violence GESI Gender Equality and Social Inclusion GoN Government of Nepal GRB Gender Responsive Budgeting IPC Integrated Planning Committee KDCN Kalika Development Centre Nepal LAs Line Agencies LGCDP Local Governance and Community Development Program LSGA Local Self Governance Act MCBE Mock Citizen Budgets Exercise MCPM Minimum Conditions and Performance Measures Minimum Criteria MOF Ministry of Finance MOFALD Ministry of Federal Affairs and Local Development MoWCSW Ministry of Women, Children and Social Welfare NGO Non-Governmental Organization PO Project Officer PPP Participatory Planning Process RMG Resource Mobilization Guidelines SACN Social Awareness Centre Nepal SM Social Mobilizer SRH Sexual Reproductive Health VDC Village Development Committee VSMC Village Supervision and Monitoring Committee WB World Bank WCDO Women Children Development Office WCF Ward Citizen Forum WN Women Network

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1. Description

1.1. Name of Coordinator of the grant contract: CARE Austria

1.2. Name and title of the Contact person: Julia Weber, Programme Officer Asia

1.3. Name of Beneficiary(ies) and affiliated entity(ies) in the Action:

Social Awareness Centre (SAC) Nepal, Surkhet and Kalika Development Centre (KDC) Nepal, Pyuthan

1.4. Title of the Action: Sankalpa "Collaborative commitment for participatory and gender responsive budgets"

1.5. Contract number: DCI-NSAPVD/2013/335-222

1.6. Start date and end date of the reporting period: 1 April 2015 to 31 March 2016

1.7. Target country(ies) or region(s): Nepal

1.8. Final beneficiaries &/or target groups (if different) (including numbers of women and men):

The target impact groups of the project include 2,289 members (93% women) of 80 Citizen Awareness Centres (CACs), 4850 members (more than 33% women) of Ward Citizen Forums (WCFs), 550 members (33% women) of the Integrated Planning Committee (IPC), 480 members (33% women) of the Village Supervision and Monitoring Committee (VSMC), 330 members of Women Networks (WN), 150 representatives from Village Development Committees (VDC) and District Development Committees (DDC) in two districts.

The final beneficiaries of the project are 122,000 people (51% women) of 20 VDCs and 2 municipalities of Surkhet and Pyuthan districts of the Mid Western Region of Nepal. In project year three the project reached 73,009 people.

1.9. Country(ies) in which the activities take place (if different from 1.7): same as above

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2. Assessment of implementation of Action Activities

2.1 Executive Summary of the Action

“Sankalpa – Collaborative Commitment for Participatory Gender Responsive Budget” supports transparent and participatory public budget allocation and expenditure that equally benefits marginalized groups, particularly women, by building the capacities of the local government and empowering the community. It contributes to efficient and gender-responsive use of public finances as foreseen by the Local Self Governance Act (LSGA 1999). The project works directly with 2,289 members of Citizen Awareness Centres (CACs) (93% women) in 80 CACs with special involvement of Dalits and Janajatis and 2,948 representatives of local authorities of District Development Committees (DDCs), Village Development Committees (VDCs), Ward Citizen Forums (WCFs), Integrated Planning Committees (IPCs) and Women Networks (WNs) in 20 VDCs and 14 wards of two municipalities in Surkhet and Pyuthan districts. The project is engaged both with the supply and demand side of local governance. On the supply side, capacity building of the local government on gender equality and social inclusion in the 14 steps planning processes was done and the knowledge of local authorities on the concepts of GESI & gender responsive budgeting (GRB) was enhanced. On the demand side, women and disadvantaged groups (DAGs) were empowered to access 35% of the VDC budget. They were trained to participate in the decisions about the allocation of the public budget applying GRB indicators. The project built their capacities on GRB and GESI which encouraged them to participate in government meetings and ask about budget allocations. Both the supply and demand sides are linked with the two CSO coalitions (one in each district) to facilitate GRB implementation. The major activities conducted in the reporting period were trainings on GESI audit, GRB and participatory planning process (PPP), development of key policy messages, capacity building of CSOs to monitor the budget allocation and implementation, capacity building on GESI, GRB and governance to District Social Mobilization Committee (DSMC), District Gender Responsive Budget Committee (DGRBC) and VDC Secretaries, CSO members and project team members at districts level, organizing CACs’ learning & sharing summit at district level, interface meetings, review gaps process, dialogue fora. Many activities have been implemented for CAC members at VDC/municipality level like REFLECT classes, budget literacy, orientation on policy provision and VDC demand form, identification of local issues and advocacy to address them. Mock Citizen Budget Exercises (MCBEs) were conducted at VDC level and shared with other VDCs. Specific Objective 1: Support local governments in 20 Village Development Committees (VDCs) and 2 Municipalities in Pyuthan and Surkhet districts in implementing sustainable participatory and gender-responsive financial management systems. On the supply side local authorities, the Village Development Committees (VDC), Village Supervision & Monitoring Committees (VSMC), District Social Mobilization Committees (DSMC), District Gender Responsive Budget Committees (DGRBC), Integrated Planning Committees (IPC) and Ward Citizen Forum (WCF) strengthened their capacities on Gender Responsive Budget (GRB) as well as on Gender Equality and Social Inclusion (GESI) in the local planning process. Local authorities were trained to allocate the VDC budget with a GRB perspective and to use 35% of the budget for the benefit of women, children and disadvantaged groups. The local bodies were trained on GESI audit, GRB tracking and they also participated in Mock Citizen Budget exercises. The project also facilitated the conduction of public audits and public hearings, the implementation of Community Score Boards (CSB), trimester review meetings and interface meetings between right holders and duty bearers. These activities improved the relationship between local authorities and impact groups as well as the service quality. They

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also enhanced social accountability towards communities. Disadvantaged groups/marginalized people participated in the village level planning process and were able to express their needs which were respected by VDC councils.

SO1 Target value Progress in this reporting period Indicator 1.1.

# Score increase of 20 VDCs and 2 Municipalities in the Minimum Criteria (MC). Target: 20 VDCs and 2 Municipalities score 1 in all 10 criteria.

In Surkhet 10 project VDCs and one municipality passed in the Minimum Criteria (MC) with good performance and increased their scores compared to last year. In Surkhet only Bajedichaur VDC failed the Minimum Criteria. In Pyuthan 7 out of 9 project VDCs passed with higher scores compared to last year in the MC, but 2 VDCs (Bangemarod and Majhakot) failed the MC. Because of the project interventions the results of the MC are improving in the project VDCs and municipalities.

Indicator 1.2.

# of VDCs and Municipalities conduct steps 5-8 of planning process. Target: 22.

All 20 VDCs and the 2 municipalities conducted meetings in steps 5-8 (from settlement level to VDC Council) with active participation of women (more than 50%) and DAGs. 14 VDCs (7 VDCs in each district) conducted Mock Citizen Budgets exercises, which helped to complete the entire steps of local planning.

Indicator 1.3.

At least 10% of the budgets of the VDCs and municipalities are allocated for women’s needs, 15% for DAG, and 10% for children’s needs, as per Resource Mobilization Guidelines (RMG). Target: 20 VDCs and 2 municipalities

All 20 VDCs and 2 municipalities allocated 10% for women’s needs, 15% for DAG, and 10% for children’s needs as per Resource Mobilization Guidelines (RMG 2069 BS). A few VDCs like Bidhyapur and Hariharpur in Surkhet as well as Saari and Tiram in Pyuthan exceeded the minimum budget allocation and increased it by 2-5%. The project establishes a proper mechanism to monitor the budget utilisation by involving CACs and women networks.

Indicator 1.4.

# of VDCs and Municipalities share their annual audit report with their councils and citizens. Target: 22

The annual audit was conducted and the report was shared in 20 VDCs and the 2 municipalities with user’s committees and citizens. Hariharpur VDC in Surkhet published in a booklet their 3-year program and budget as well as the last year audit report.

Specific Objective 2: Coordinate and strengthen the engagement of civil society organizations in holding the government accountable for a transparent, efficient and gender-responsive use of public finances at VDC, district and national level The formation of CSO coalitions was facilitated in both project districts. CSO coalition members were involved in Training of Trainers (ToT) on GRB and GESI in the local planning process.

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After the training, trained CSO Coalition members in both districts prepared an action plan for joint advocacy on the allocation and utilization of 35% special provision of the VDC budgets, gender based violence, child marriage, women participation and leadership. They jointly developed key policy messages including respective action plans. Similarly they are engaged in the proper implementation of GESI provisions, alcohol control as well as citizenship and property rights of women. The CSO coalition of each target district cooperates with the local government and community. They have facilitated and monitored the proper utilization of the 35% special provision of the VDC budget and GRB implementation. They also prepared GESI action plans including minimum requirements for an organization (such as GRB orientation to board members and staff, GESI strategy, code of conduct, GESI policy, GESI focal person nomination, GESI audit etc.) Some Nepali CSOs like Sundar Nepal developed a GESI strategy, a code of conduct, conducted a GESI audit and nominated a GESI focal person. CSOs jointly organized a CAC summit in both districts as learning and sharing event. It was a good example of coordination with government agencies. Sankalpa facilitated learning & sharing fora to exchange ideas and field evidences for GRB advocacy.

SO2 Target Value Progress in this Reporting Period Indicator 2.1.

# of advocacy initiatives taken

by CACs. Target: 80 (1 per

CAC)

All 80 CACs started advocacy on various issues such as elimination of child marriage practices and gender based violence (GBV), promotion of women’s participation, leadership, citizenship and property rights of women, implementation of the 35% budget and GESI provision.

Indicator 2.2.

# of evidence based advocacy

initiatives by CSOs. Target: 10

(8 at district, 2 at national

level).

Both CSO coalitions prepared a joint advocacy plan on the 35% special VDC budget provision, child marriage, alcohol control, citizenship rights, VAW, Chhaupadi system, property rights of women, women’s participation and leadership and the implementation of GESI provisions. They conducted advocacy initiatives at various occasions like on the International Women Day, during local festivals such as TEEJ, during the 16-day campaign against gender violence etc.

Indicator 2.3.

CSOs monitor the implementation of the 14-step process, the gender-responsiveness and inclusion of DAG of the allocations, and transparency of expenditure at VDC and Municipality level. Target: 22

CSO coalition members and Village Supervision and Monitoring Committees (VSMC) received a 2-day training to monitor (a) gender-responsiveness and inclusion of DAGs in the budget allocations, and (b) transparency of expenditure. They participated in settlement and ward level meetings during the local planning process and were engaged in the budget allocation. CSOs also developed a common action plan to monitor the VDC budgets with a GRB perspective and to monitor the 35 % budget utilization. CSO members were trained by the project at district as well as VDC level and used them as facilitators in public audits,

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interface meetings, Community Score Board exercises and VDC planning etc.

2.2. Results and Activities

Review and Reflection Meeting: The Annual Review and Reflection Meeting (AR&RM) was conducted from 20-21 January 2016 in Pyuthan. The first day meeting was organized with both partners and was attended by 23 persons (11 women and 12 men). The purpose of the meeting was to reflect on the key achievements and effectiveness of major activities over the past year, review of the overall strategy, challenges and intervention logic and planning for year 3. The second day of the meeting was attended by the local government and CSOs representatives (17 women and 22 men). Both meetings were useful to share lessons learnt, challenges and to collect feedback and recommendations from implementing partners, local government and CSOs. SACN Surkhet also organized a separate review & reflection meeting with district stakeholders. Altogether 57 people (including 14 women) participated in district stakeholder annual meeting in Surkhet. (Annex 2: AR&RM report) Result 1: 80 Citizen Awareness Centres (CACs) are actively engaged in participatory budget planning, allocation and expenditure monitoring from a gender perspective.

80 CACs were selected in 20 VDCs and 2 municipalities in Surkhet and Pyuthan. 24 out of 80 CACs were formed by LGCDP, 47 CACs were formed by a previous CARE project (CSP II) and 9 were newly formed by Sankalpa in year one. 2,289 CAC members (2,138 women, 151 men) from 80 CACs participated in REFLECT sessions. Initially, one meeting per month was held in each CAC. From December 2015 on two meetings per month were conducted in each CAC because it became clear that more meetings are beneficial for CACs. CAC members prepared a code of conduct for CACs and corresponding rules for participants. The CAC members enhanced their knowledge and capacity on budget allocation and the concept of gender responsive budgeting. They learned that 35% of the VDC budget must be allocated for the direct benefit of women, children and DAG. This knowledge encouraged them to participate in meetings with the local government and to learn more about budgets and other local issues. As a result, they are taking the initiative to raise and address local level issues (such as gender based violence, child marriage, women participation and leadership, implementation of GESI related policies and provisions, sanitation, vital event registration system (VERS), GRB implementation in practice, caste based discrimination, polygamy marriage, use of alcohol, gambling, reproductive health issue of women, children’s education, women’s work load analysis and leadership etc.) CAC members have developed their leadership skills and many women became active members of their community: 384 female CAC members were nominated in WCFs, 39 female CAC members were nominated as coordinators in WCFs and 91 female CAC members are participating in VDC level women networks. Similarly CAC members were involved in several committees and user groups: 23 women CAC members are represented in 22 Integrated Planning Committees and 22 CAC members are involved in Village Supervision and Monitoring Committees in Surkhet. Two CAC members were selected as members of a community forest user group, 7 members as chair persons in Supervision and Monitoring Committees (SMCs), 3 CAC members are in VDC level peace committee and 43 CAC members are members of SMCs in Pyuthan. CAC members mobilized a revolving fund and conducted income generating activities (goat raising, ginger farming, turmeric farming etc.) CACs are successfully dealing with women and children related issues

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and they are taking community level leadership. They have initiated the provision of citizenship certificates and the registration of other vital events (birth, marriage, death). They convinced family members to participate in external meetings and other capacity development activities. They are also able to allocate budgets for marginalized people’s need. More than 75% CAC members are participating in regular CAC meetings where they selected top priorities and problems of their communities and developed an action plan for each of them. Likewise more than 50% women participated in the steps five (village level) to eight (VDC council) of the local planning process in this year. Indicators ER 1

ER 1 Target Value Progress Towards Result in Reporting Period

Indicator 1.1.

Change in CAC perceptions of their involvement in local government processes. Target: 70% perceive improvement.

80 CACs are running REFLECT sessions (so far 1,920 sessions were conducted) with the involvement of 2,289 CAC members (2,138 women, 151 men). A code of conduct for the CAC management was developed. CAC members have been involved in several committees and user groups at community level.

Indicator 1.2.

% of CAC members participating at VDC level budgetary debates and public hearings raise their voice. Target: 20%

Most members from the 80 CACs attended interface meetings regarding the planning process and participated in budgetary debates about the 35% budget provision for women, children and DAG. Some members raised their voice during these meetings. CAC members also participated in the public audit process in their own ward/community.

Indicator 1.3.

# of CAC gender responsive proposals submitted get approved and funded through VDC budgets. Target: at least 1 proposal approved per CAC.

In total 212 proposals were submitted by 80 CACs to IPC through WCF. 111 proposals were approved. 90 plans (only CAC focused) have been approved in the last project year by the VDC council for skill development training, awareness on women’s rights, income generating activities, equipment for birth centres, children education centres, irrigation plastic ponds etc.

Indicator 1.4.

% of women CAC members nominated to WCF and IPC are budget literate and perceive to have more influence. Target: 70%

384 female CAC members were nominated as WCF members. Among them 39 coordinators were nominated from CACs. Moreover, 23 female CAC members are represented in 22 IPCs. More than 95% CAC members participated at least in one budget literacy session.

1.1. Refresher Trainings to CAC Facilitators: Three REFLECT refresher trainings were conducted in Pyuthan and Surkhet for local resource persons (LRPs) and social mobilizers (SMs) to enhance their practical knowledge and skills to facilitate CAC REFLECT classes and to collect case studies. Altogether 72 participants (49 women and 23 men) actively participated in the trainings. The main achievement of the trainings was the analysis of the current CAC

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“When I learnt at the CAC meeting about the citizenship certificate I called my father who was in Achham and went with him as a witness to the Ward Office. I applied in District Administration Office to get my citizenship certificate and I received it (No 65-01-72-00538).” Kalpana Gurung, Uttarganga, BN, Surkhet

facilitation skills of LRPs. They prepared an action plan to make CAC sessions more effective and to provide skills to write the VDC demand form and case stories. 1.2 Roll out of training across CACs Altogether 80 CACs are running REFLECT sessions. Since the project start 1,920 CAC sessions were conducted. In the beginning they took place once a month, now they are conducted twice a month. In these sessions local issues and problems are discussed and the CAC members decide how to advocate for citizenship rights, violence against women, child marriage, vital events registration, hygiene and sanitation, diseases, issue and ways to access government services. In the REFLECT classes the CAC members learn about social mobilization, leadership, women’s rights, GESI, GRB and related policy provisions. 1.4 Formation of CAC Networks: 22 CAC networks (10 in Pyuthan and 12 in Surkhet) have been formed in project year 1 with the participation of CAC members and representatives from existing women groups. The networks are playing a vital role for VDC as well as district level advocacy issues. CAC networks and women network jointly implement district level issues. Two CAC summits (one in Pyuthan and one in Surkhet) were organized as a large learning and sharing event at district level. In Pyuthan it was organized in December 2015 in the frame of the 16 day campaign against gender violence. In Surkhet it was organized in January 2016. DDC and WCDO took the lead to organize the summit and all CSOs played an active facilitation role. Altogether 336 people participated in the CAC summits. Likeminded organizations and government offices contributed financial and material support to organize the summit. During the summit more than 70 success stories were shared in mini groups. 30 successful stories were selected and shared in the plenary session. 1.5 CAC Sensitization and Budget Literacy (RMG 2079): 52 orientation sessions on GESI and GRB policies were conducted in 80 CACs in Surkhet and Pyuthan. Altogether 2,703 people (2,505 women and 198 men were informed about current GESI/GRB government policies. 11 CACs organized two orientation sessions on budget literacy considering the lack of knowledge in this regard. The participants enhanced their knowledge about budget literacy, budget structure and the budget concept (current and capital) of the Government of Nepal. These sessions are instrumental to enhance the knowledge and understanding on budget literacy (VDC budget, types capital cost and operational cost, internal income, VDC grants, special budget provision, social security allowances, matching fund, calculation system) and conceptual clarity on gender responsive budgeting (GRB) and planning. The orientation participants were also informed on Local Self Governance Act’s mandatory allocation of 35% budget by local bodies for targeted groups (10% for women, 10% for children and 15% for marginalized groups (Dalit, Janajati and others). After the orientation sessions all CAC members were aware of the planning process of government, legitimacy and roles & responsibilities of CACs in policies and guidelines. 1.5.1. Policy Provision on GESI and Gender Responsive Budget: 82 one-day orientation sessions on policy provision of GESI and GRB were organized in the 80 CACs. A total of 2,359 people (2,128 women and 221 men) including 2,289 CAC members attended these sessions. Through the information sessions participants became aware about

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their rights and they enhanced their knowledge on GESI and GRB related policy provisions. As a result of the training they claimed their rights with duty bearers that 35% of the VDC budget must be allocated for the benefit of women, children and DAGs and they asked for proper implementation of this regulation. Now CACs members are taking the initiative and play a leading role in planning the local level budget in line with their needs. The political influence for budget distribution is now minimized. Community people take ownership to accomplish local level VDC projects with quality & transparency. 1.6. Implementation of Action Plans and Social Campaigns: 204 events (68 in Pyuthan and 136 in Surkhet) of social actions were organized by CACs in coordination with VDCs, women networks and WCDO in both project districts at various occasions. These social actions included cultural dances and songs with messages and solutions regarding women issues, rallies and gatherings, dialogue fora etc. Altogether 24,996 people (17,526 women, 6,416 men, 1,296 adolescent girls, 758 adolescent boys) such as politicians, government officials, NGOs, CSOs, media, community groups, CACs, women cooperatives, community people actively participated in the programme. The social actions were also used to discuss women rights which are ensured in the new constitution of Nepal. They were organized on the issues which were identified by CACs and for which CACs prepared a work-plan for advocacy actions at local, VDC as well as district/national level. The topics of social actions were gender based violence, child marriage, women’s participation and leadership, implementation of GESI related policies and provisions, sexual abuse against girls, control of alcohol, utilization of 35% VDC budget, reduction of Chhaupadi practices, abolishment of “untouchability” and improvement of citizenship rights of women. These issues are deeply rooted in society and perceived as natural by the community (women and men). Social actions show cultural practices which have negative implications on women and which cause lifelong gender based violence. Key policy massages against child marriage and gender based violence were elaborated and disseminated. Community members committed themselves to a proper and effective implementation of these messages in their communities

1.7 Community Score Boards: 24 community score boards (CSB) were established in Surkhet and Pyuthan under the leadership of VDCs and municipalities to promote social accountability and to increase meaningful participation of women and DAGs in the decision making process. 2,992 community members (1,920 women, 1,072 men) from all wards of the VDCs participated in these events where they discussed about the services and facilities they receive from the local government. The CSBs are used to promote social accountability and the participation of the community – especially of women and DAGs – in the decision making process and to increase the role of citizens in the governance process. Indicators and sub-indicators for the score boards were prepared in an orientation meeting at VDC level. For the supply side (local authorities) and the demand side (community members) it was useful to remind each other about their responsibilities when it comes to their rights and duties. The Sankalpa project initiated with the community score boards a new approach of citizen engagement which was the first time implemented in both project districts. The interaction between right holders and duty bearers minimized the gap between them and enhanced mutual understanding. It is an effective tool to achieve GESI results and empower the people. The service providers (i.e. local authorities) and key informants make a commitment for quality services and establish an action plan to improve the services which is the beauty of this social accountability tool. Since the community score boards have been introduced it can be observed that local authorities inform citizens better about their services, that the participation of women and Dalit in decision making increased and that a public problem hearing mechanism

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was developed at VDC level. In the past some VDC secretaries and municipality executive officers were reluctant to work in the communities and stayed in bigger towns. After the community score board establishment it can be noticed that they are regularly attending their duty station and they are eager to increase their CSB indicators. On the other hand, community people are taking the initiative to evaluate and improve GESI & GRB status of their VDCs. 1.7.1 Community Score Board Review: 24 CSB review meetings have been completed in 20 VDCs and 2 municipalities in this reporting period. Altogether 5,672 (3,761 women and 1,813 men) actively participated in the CSB review where all participants agreed on average numbers based on the indicators and sub-indicators and where they prepared targets for the future action plan. In the review meetings the progress was assessed as follows: complaint boxes and citizen charters have been established in most project VDCs, there is more than 40% women’s participation in user committees formed by VDCs, the trimester review meeting in VDCs started on time, VDC offices opened every day and provided services to right holders in a friendly manner, public hearings were conducted bi-annually with more than 50-60% participation of women and DAGs, GESI trainings were organized from the VDC budget for CAC and WCF coordinators, VDC councils approved one or more demand forms made by CACs, capacity building training was organized for women and DAG members of VSMC, public audits were conducted as per guidelines and 35% of the VDC budget was allocated and planned with the participation of target groups. 1.8. Training on demand form for VDC funding: The project organized two trainings on demand form and case story writing for social mobilizers (SMs) and local resource persons (LRPs). Each training lasted for two days. In these trainings SMs and LRPs were instructed how to fill in the demand forms to apply for funding within the 35% VDC budget which is allocated for women, children and disadvantaged groups. Furthermore, LRPs and SMs learnt how to write case stories. Additionally to the trainings for SMs and LRPs, 43 orientation sessions on demand form preparation were organized for CAC members. Altogether 1,488 community people (1,289 women, 194 men and 5 girls) attended the workshops. Each project CAC prepared one to four demand forms and submitted them at the cluster/ward level meeting. In total 212 demand forms were submitted by project CACs in Pyuthan and Surkhet. Out of them 111 (69 + 42) were approved by the VDC council. 90 proposals where only CAC members benefit were approved. Result 2: Local government actors at 20 VDCs and 2 Municipalities implement participatory and gender-responsive planning and budgeting processes and conduct public audits on VDC expenditures.

During the second year of the local authorities (VDC secretary and other VDC staff, IPC, political parties and WCF) gained knowledge on GESI, GESI audit, GRB tracking, governance and the importance of integrating GESI in the local planning process, mock citizen budget exercises (MCBE) etc. One of the major achievements of the project is the change of attitude and behaviour of local authorities towards women, children and DAGs in regard to the allocation and utilization of the 35% special provision of the VDC budgets for their benefits. More than 50% of women and 60 % DAGs (from DAG clusters) participated in 2015 in local planning meetings from settlement to VDC level. Community score boards were established in each project VDC and joint ward office of the municipality. They were reviewed in close coordination with LGCDP/DDC. The relationship between the VDC secretaries and the community, especially with women and disadvantaged groups, has improved after the establishment of community score boards. After participating in the mock citizen budgets exercises the decision

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makers of local bodies (IPC members) realized the importance of a bottom-up planning process. Sankalpa provided support to conduct public audits of at least three large projects each VDC. Indicators ER 2

ER 2 Target Value Progress Towards Result in Reporting Period

Indicator 2.1.

# of VDCs and Municipalities conducted Basti (village) and Ward level meetings with participation of women and DAG to prioritize the local needs in the VDC budget. Target: 22

22 3-day trainings on GESI in the local planning process and GRB tracking/analysis were conducted. Local authorities (VDC, IPC, political parties and WCF) enhanced their knowledge about GESI and they changed their behaviour towards women, children and DAGs. More than 50% of women and DAGs participated in the planning processes from settlement level to ward level. The mock citizen budget exercise encouraged women and DAG to participate in the planning process and to express their needs. VDC councils approved 90 proposals from marginalized groups. 80 meetings dedicated to VDC and municipality planning took place in the CAC clusters. 126 planning meetings were held during the mock citizen budget process in the clusters of 14 VDCs.

Indicator 2.2.

Public audit conducted for VDC expenditure above NPR 200,000 are facilitated by VDC Social Mobilizers and interactive to foster participation of women and DAG. Target: 60 % of Dalit households are present, 50 % women

For 60 projects a public audit was implemented by VDCs (such as construction of roads, drinking water systems, community buildings). VDCs invited women and DAGs to participate in the public audits. A public audit was also conducted for some projects with a budget of less than 2,000 NPR. More than 50% women and 60% Dalit participated in the public audit process.

Indicator 2.3.

Scoreboards on VDC compliance in place. Target: 22 community score boards

In coordination with LGCDP/DDC and VDCs 24 community score boards have been established after the completion of community mobilization and self-evaluation of VDCs’ performance and services for target groups. 24 CSBs completed the first review in year 2 in both districts.

2.1. Coordination with LGCDP: One district level workshop was organized in collaboration with LGCDP/DDC in Surkhet in year 2. Altogether 47 participants (18 women and 29 men) such as social mobilizers, Sankalpa project staff, SM officers and district governance experts of LGCDP/DDC participated in the workshop. The social mobilizers of LGCDP and Sankalpa are supposed to work together in the same mission and with the same vision about GESI, GRB, participatory planning process. The workshop was facilitated by LGCDP staff, DDC and the project partners. The purpose of the workshop was to create a discussion platform for the local government staff in order to effectively implement the planning process from Basti to district level. Furthermore, lessons learnt from Sankalpa were shared (e.g. the mock citizen budget exercise, community score

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“I have participated in various trainings organized by Sankalpa and built my confidence. I am engaged in many community groups and I became the WCF coordinator of my ward. I am able to solve many community issues.” Hema BK, WCF Coordinator Bidhyapur VDC.

“Before the Sankalpa project, we did not know about the 35% special budget provision, but now we are participating in planning process and prepare and implement the activities with 10 % budget for women by ourselves.” Laxmi Basnet, Secretary, Women Network, Bajedichaur VDC

board, public audit, interface meeting, trimester review meeting, GESI audit, key policy messages development etc.) The participants enhanced their capacities to support the CAC members with the demand form preparation. 2.2. Trainings for local bodies on integrating gender and inclusion aspects into local planning: 22 three-day trainings on GRB and GESI in the local planning process were conducted in the 20 project VDCs and 2 municipalities in both districts. Altogether there were 779 participants (328 women and 451 men) from VDCs, sub-health posts, local agriculture extension offices, IPCs, WCFs, CACs, political parties, women networks, children clubs and teachers. The participants were trained on the concept of gender equality, the importance of gender responsive planning and budgeting, women empowerment and indicators for measuring GRB. The participants enhanced their knowledge and skills on GESI integration in the local planning process, gender responsive budgeting and addressing the needs and issues of women and DAGs. The participants appreciated the trainings because they were conducted just before the start of the local planning process which reminded and encouraged them to participate actively in the process. 2.2.1 Orientation on GESI and GRB for WCF members: 194 one-day orientation sessions for capacity development of ward citizen forum (WCF) members were organized in the project target VDCs in both districts in year 2. The orientation sessions were attended by 4,400 WCF members (2,625 women and 1,775 men). Participants learnt about the concept of gender responsive budgeting and became aware about their roles and responsibilities to integrate GESI in local planning processes. They also learnt about the importance to support the approval of proposals from women, children and DAGs. 2.2.2 Orientation on GESI, GRB in the Participatory Planning Process: In total 26 events of one-day orientation sessions on GRB and the participatory planning process of 14 steps were organised for 1,128 persons (678 women, 450 men) who are representatives of the WCFs, networks, CAC members, CBOs and political representatives from the VDC level in Pyuthan and Surkhet. The participants enhanced their knowledge and skills on GESI integration in the planning process and on the allocation of the VDC budgets from a GRB perspective. They were informed about the fact that 35% of VDC budgets must be allocated for the direct benefit of women, children and DAGs. After this orientation session the participants made a commitment to ensure more participation of women and DAGs in the local planning process by transmitting the information effectively to them. As a result, women’s participation of more than 50% was ensured in the local planning process meetings on Basti and Ward level. 2.3. Provision of surge capacities, resources and guidelines supporting the planning cycle: In the frame of the project guidelines about GESI in the local planning process and GRB tracking were prepared to provide support in the practical implementation of the planning steps 5-8 in the project VDCs. The project team, especially the social mobilizers, mobilized the

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community and conducted meetings with the participation of representatives from the settlement to VDC council level. They also supported VDCs in organizing events to stop Chhaupadi practices, to stop open defecation, to promote immunization and to conduct public hearings in the project VDCs. A booklet was published for CACs. This booklet is used by CACs, other CSOs and likeminded government offices. The project developed the training curriculum and process guidelines for GESI audits, GRB tracking, PPP and key policy message development. The project also developed process guidelines for interface meetings, trimester review meetings and public audits. 2.4. Support for VDCs to conduct gender responsive public audits: Sankalpa supported 85 public audits of 60 projects1 in both districts. It is mandatory for VDC secretaries to conduct public audits if projects cost more than NPR 200,000. In these public audits 4,449 people (2207 women and 2242 men) were involved from user committees (construction, procurement and management etc.), political parties, IPC, WCF, VDC and others. Attending the audits, participants learned that public audits need to be conducted three times even though VDCs usually conduct them only one time. Members of the construction committees gained knowledge how to fulfil their roles and responsibilities. The estimated costs of the project are displayed at the construction site to inform the users about the budget of the project. As a result of public audit, public projects were accomplished in a timely manner. The participating of women increased, whereas corruption and political influence decreased. Mutual understanding was created between local authorities and the community people. 2.5. Capacity Development of the District Social Mobilization Committee (DSMC): Two capacity building trainings on GESI in the planning process and GRB were conducted at district level for the members of the District Social Mobilization Committee (DSMC) and the District Gender Responsive Budget Committee (DGRBC) in collaboration with LGCDP/DDC. 86 members from the committees (47 women and 39 men) participated in the trainings. The participants learned about the concept of gender responsive budgeting, GESI in the planning process and social mobilization. They also learned how to track the VDC/DDC budget from the perspective of GESI and GRB and how to monitor its effective implementation. The training focused on the GRB national action plan, UNSCR 1325 and 1820, GRB indicators, GESI audits etc. The training was helpful for the members of DGRBC which was newly established to clarify their roles. 2.6. Coordination and Monitoring Committee at VDC/Municipality: The local government formed coordination and monitoring committees at VDC and municipality level as per resource mobilization guidelines (RMG 2069). They also established village supervision and monitoring committees (VSMCs) as per Social Mobilisation guideline 2071 to supervise and monitor social mobilization at VDC level. The project conducted for committee members 44 two-day trainings on GRB, GESI in the local planning process and the roles and responsibilities of the VSMC and MSMC. Altogether 980 people (404 women 576 men) participated in the training. The participants learned to monitor not only the implementation of public projects and status of their completion but also the level of participation and decision making of women and DAGs. Moreover, they gained knowledge how to ensure the positive impact of public projects on women, children and DAGs. The training covered different monitoring tools, VDC structures, GESI, GRB, PPP, VSMC/MSMC roles, the preparation of meeting minutes and reporting systems etc.

1 Big projects need three audits, whereas smaller projects have only two audits.

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Interface Activities (ER1 &ER2)

I. Multi-Stakeholder Workshops on GRB: 38 workshops on GRB analysis/tracking and VDC expense tracking were implemented at VDC and municipality level. Altogether 1,474 people (709 women and 765 men) participated in the workshops. Participants were CAC members, user committee members, political parties and VDC staff. GRB tracking focused on the large projects (such as infrastructure projects, building construction, irrigation systems etc.). According to GRB localization guidelines the budget should be analysed if the project costs more than 50,000 NPR at VDC level, 100,000 NPR at municipality level and 150,000 NPR at DDC level. The participants analyzed the expenses from a GESI perspective and applied GRB five main indicators and different sub-indicators. The participants enhanced their capacities to analyse the budget and its utilisation and to track who is benefitting from the budget allocation. The participants realized the benefit status from the VDC and municipality budgets. II. Facilitate Interface between Right Holders and Duty Bearers: 16 interface meetings were organized (3 in Pyuthan and 13 in Surkhet) in this reporting period. 1,826 people (1,097 women and 736 men) participated in these meetings. The meetings were organized as dialogue forum between duty bearers (VDCs and health posts) and right holders (community members) in order to identify the service status, to know about the resource allocation of the government and to improve the access to services. Duty bearers made commitments to provide their services on time and also discussed the roles of the citizens. III. Joint Monitoring and Cross-Learning: Two joint monitoring visits of District Project Advisory Committee (DPAC) members were organized in Surkhet and two were organized in Pyuthan in year 2. Altogether 105 representatives (58 women and 47 men) from LGCDP/DDC, WCDO, DHO, DADO, media and the NGO Federation participated in the monitoring visits. The joint monitoring visit is an opportunity to learn the effective implementation of GRB at the local level and to provide a platform for feedback collection. After the visits the participants recommended that CACs need to engage men in the campaign for alcohol control and that they need to resolve other issues too. The monitoring visit participants provided the information that government will provide 10% budget for child development activities if a VDC has been declared as child friendly. Furthermore, they suggested that women need to lobby for allocating more than the 10% of the budget for women and 15% for marginalized groups. The DPAC monitoring visit was organized in three VDCs in Surkhet (Gutu, Bijaura and Bidhyapur) and in three VDCs in Pyuthan (Gothibang, Saari and Ligha). The DPAC members appreciated the achievements of the project and recommended to expand the project to cover more VDCs in Surkhet and Pyuthan. Two meetings with the District Project Advisory Committee (DPAC) were organized in year 2. In these meetings the project partners presented project updates and shared the activity plan of the project to get feedback and inputs from the advisory committee members. Altogether 24 people (9 women and 15 men) participated in these meetings. A DPAC meeting was also organized after the team returned from the field. (Annex 4: DPAC monitoring visit report) Two cross learning visits were organized to visit the World Bank funded PRAN project in Dang and the EU funded AAN project in Palpa. A group of 61 people (42 women, 19 men) (representatives from CACs, WCFs, IPCs and project partners) participated in the learning visits. (Annex 3: cross learning visit report)

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Additional interface activities: Trimester basis review meeting: 68 review meetings (31 Pyuthan, 37 Surkhet) were organised by VDCs and municipalities on a trimester basis. There were 2,599 participants (1121 women and 1478 men) from VDCs, IPCs, WCFs, different networks and CSOs. The main achievements of these trimester basis review meetings were the revision of the VDC level activities, the VDC budgets and its implementation status. Furthermore, they are useful to follow up the implementation of governance guidelines at VDC level and to coordinate with all stakeholders and networks at VDC and municipality level. The review meetings were headed by VDC/municipality secretaries and facilitated by the Sankalpa project partners. Review the gap process analysis workshops: 65 workshops on gap process review were organized in both project districts. Altogether 2,223 key stakeholders (1,224 women and 995 men) participated in the workshops. The main purpose of these workshops was to identify the gaps of the programs implemented by VDCs, CSOs and other development agencies, to analyze the participation of women and DAGs and to review the budget allocated for social allowances (such as nutrition allowance for Dalit children, pension for elderly people and widows). Strengthening of Women Networks The project organized 24 trainings to strengthen women networks in this reporting period. Altogether 950 key stakeholders (863 women and 87 men) participated in these trainings. The participants discussed the roles of networks, ways to address local issues and possibilities to influence the local planning process. The project aimed to build the capacity of women networks on monitoring and GRB budget allocation. Result 3: CSOs in the two target districts are engaged in monitoring the local governments' budget allocation and expenditure

The project team coordinated and enhanced the relationship with district level CSOs through informal meetings, trainings and workshops in year 2. A CSO coalition was formed in each of the two target districts with 10 likeminded organizations. CSO representatives were trained on social mobilization, GRB and GESI in the local planning process as well as on GESI audits and GRB tracking. CSOs members have been mobilized as trainers and facilitators by the Sankalpa project. The CSO coalition planned joint advocacy for the implementation of the 35% VDC budget, GBV, child marriage, women participation & leadership, implementation of GESI policies and provisions, chhaupadi system etc. The CSO collations also facilitated the CAC summits in both project districts. The Sankalpa project organized a workshop to develop key policy messages together with CSOs, the government, media and other stakeholders. Four different issues (two each district) were identified. Indicators ER 3

ER 3 Target Value Progress Towards Result in Reporting Period

Indicator 3.1.

# of CSOs in target districts have increased understanding of GRB and gender budget auditing. Target: 10 CSOs per district

Sankalpa organized several trainings and workshops on GESI, GRB and governance to build the capacity of CSO members in both districts. Two workshops were organized to identify and prioritize district level issues for

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joint advocacy and to develop key policy messages as well as a GESI action plan. The project also organized a training to support CSOs to monitor the budget in both districts. The CSOs Coalition prepared an action plan for joint advocacy. 10 CSOs in Pyuthan and 10 CSOs in Surkhet have increased understanding on GESI, GRB and governance after participating in various trainings and workshops at district as well as field level.

Indicator 3.2.

# of mock citizen budgets compiled and compared to actual VDC budgets. Target: 2 per district.

The concept of mock citizen budget was shared with VDC secretaries, CACs and WCFs and other stakeholders. 14 mock citizen budgets exercises were conducted in 14 VDCs (seven in each district).

Indicator 3.3.

Capacity building on Gender Audits training conducted by CSOs. Target: 22 VDCs and Ward Secretaries

Coordination meetings with LGCDP/DDC in the project districts, MoFALD and UN Women at the national level have been organized. The project provided 5 capacity building trainings on GESI audit for CSOs, 22 VDC secretaries and ward secretaries (2 in Surkhet and 3 in Pyuthan). In Surkhet the DDCs conducted a gender audit the third day of the training. In Pyuthan a GESI audit was conducted by a CSO in close coordination with the project..

Indicator 3.4.

Gaps analysis in the policy provision and implementation is shared with stakeholders at district level and commitments generated from the local authorities to address gaps.

Trimester review meetings with VDCs and other local authorities were conducted. Gaps in the delivery of service and facilities by duty bearers to right holders were identified in all project VDCs. The gap analysis was shared with LGCDP/DDC, VDCs, municipalities and DPAC members.

3.1. Arrange CSO dialogue forum: 32 dialogue forums were organized in both districts for different stakeholders and networks. Altogether 1,462 people (680 women and 784 men) participated in the discussion programs. They are representatives from CSOs, women networks, Dalit and Janajaati networks, senior citizens, children and persons with disabilities. The purpose of the meetings was to raise awareness about budget transparency, social accountability, GESI and GRB implementation in order to strengthen governance in the community. The meeting provided a forum for everybody to discuss various issues and identify the existing gaps between policies and practices. As a matter of fact, most community members are not aware about the special provision of the VDC budget which they can access for their capacity building and empowerment activities. Community members were encouraged to participate in such meetings to assess gender responsive budget allocations and monitor their implementation. The community members also raised other issues such as the nutrition allowance of Dalit children, the social security allowance of elderly people, ID cards for persons with disabilities, the allowance for single women, the implementation of the 35% budget provision, free medicine from health institutions, allowance for ANC check up and other problems. VDC secretaries, people in charge of health

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“I am committed to develop Tiram as a model VDC, but I cannot achieve this goal alone. I need support from the community people and organizations like KDC and CARE. I have learnt through the Sankalpa project governance tools such as community score boards, public audits, mock citizen budget excercises etc.” Keshav R Acharya, Secretary, Tiram

VDC, Pyuthan

posts and other service providers gave detailed information on public services and agreed on an action plan to improve these services. 3.2. Support CSOs to carry out gender audit trainings at local and district level: Initially it was planned to conduct gender audits in the project VDCs but the baseline study identified a lack of knowledge of local authorities about gender auditing. There is a small structure within the VDCs and most of the people working in the VDCs are men. The government of Nepal also initiated a GESI audit at DDC and municipality level. If VDC employees know about the concept of gender auditing, it can be translated into the VDC level structure and into the VDC policies. However, if the concept of gender auditing is not clear, VDCs cannot be expected to have a gender sensitive structure, policies and procedures. Hence, the project changed its initial plan and instead of conducting gender audits it was decided to conduct trainings on gender auditing to build the capacity of VDC/Ward secretaries, DGRBC members and CSOs. Five gender audit trainings were organized at district & cluster level and the project invited VDC and ward secretaries, CSO members and others. Altogether 131 people (58 women and 73 men) participated in the gender audit trainings. The project also supported DDCs and municipalities to conduct GESI audits. 3.2.1 Support CSOs to develop a mechanism to monitor budgets at local & national level: 2 trainings for CSOs were conducted to develop a system to monitor the budget at local level. Altogether 54 people (29 women and 25 men) participated in the trainings. Executive directors, coordinators, GESI/GRB focal persons, chairpersons, LGCDP coordinators and DDC focal persons and representatives from 22 CSOs actively attended the trainings. The training participants revised the indicators and provided their inputs on the GESI/GRB action plan and strategy. The project team prepared further steps of the GESI & GRB action plan. Additionally, a district level GESI & GRB budget monitoring action plan was developed in both working districts. 3.3. Mock Citizen Budget at VDC level: The training on GESI audits and GRB enhanced the skills of CSOs to prepare mock-citizen budgets and facilitate the process of preparing mock citizen budgets in the VDCs. 6 exercises of mock citizen budgets (MCB) and 18 events of MCB sharing were conducted by the project in year 2. After sharing the MCB process, eight VDCs requested the Sankalpa project to replicate the MCB in their VDC. They agreed to share the costs for the MCB. 8 VDCs organized MCBs jointly to replicate the learning. Altogether 2,925 people (1,636 women and 1,289 men: social mobilizers, WCF coordinators, CSO members, IPC and VDC representatives, representatives of disadvantaged groups and others) participated in the MCBs. In the MCB sharing program 972 people (478 women, 484 men) participated. Result 4: CSOs coalitions from two target districts and national level are advocating for gender responsive budgets at national level.

CSO coalitions were formed in both districts and a coordination system among them was established. Different meetings, trainings and workshops were conducted for the coalition

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members and they shared the learning from their works. The coalition members of both districts identified local issues and problems and prioritized them for joint advocacy on GRB at the district level. They will also share their policy messages at the national level. Indicators ER 4

ER 4 Target Value Progress Towards Result in Reporting Period

Indicator 4.1.

Evidence from VDC, municipality and district level is shared with national stakeholders. Target: MoFALD, MOF, NPC, MWCSW; UN Women; INGOs; CSOs

Evidence from VDC, municipality and district level was shared with MoFALD, MoWCSW, UN Women, INGOs and CSOs. SWC and MoWCSW paid a monitoring visit to the project and provided their input to the project. The project shared key events and activities (like mock citizen budget exercises, key policy messages development, CAC summit, community score boards).

Indicator 4.2.

CSOs at district level prioritized issues for advocacy and led targeted advocacy initiatives. Target: at least 2 meetings

Four workshops were organised to prioritise problems and to plan joint advocacy. Key policy messages were disseminated during the 16-day GBV campaign and the celebration of the International Women Day at district as well as national level.

4.1. Development of key policy messages and mobilisation for joint advocacy: The project facilitated the formation of two CSO coalitions (one in each district) with the participation of district level NGOs and representatives from the Women Children Development Office which is the leading organization for women and children’s issues and is working for the rights of women and children. Two meetings with CSO coalition members were organized in each district to enhance the coordination and relationship among CSOs. The formation of a CSO coalition created a platform to share experience and learning in various sectors, such as health, livelihood, governance, gender based violence, child marriage, women’s participation and leadership, implementation of GESI policy/provisions and children’s health and education etc. The platform was also used for advocacy action at district level. Four workshops were organized for CSO coalition members, government representatives and likeminded organizations in both project districts. The coalition members identified issues related to women, children and DAGs in their working VDCs. The coalition members prioritized four issues in each district for which they developed key policy messages. Furthermore, they drafted a GESI action plan at district level. Altogether 196 people (93 women, 103 men) participated in the four workshops to develop the key policy messages and the GESI action plan. The key policy messages relate to the four following issues: 1) GBV, 2) child marriage, 3) women’s participation and leadership, 4) implementation of GESI policies and provisions such as the 35% special budget provision. Coalition members decided to organize and host meetings quarterly on a rotation basis among member organizations. The messages were printed and distributed to CSOs, government offices (VDCs, municipalities, DDCs, WCDOs) CACs and other community groups. 4.2. Work with Government of Nepal’s GRB Committee: The project conducted in both project districts a two-day workshop in coordination with LGCDP/DDC for the members of the District Gender Responsive Budget Committee (DGRBC)

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on GESI in the 14 steps of planning and GRB implementation. Altogether 86 members (47 women and 39 men) from DGRBC and District Social Mobilization Committee (DSMC) participated in the workshops. The DGRBCs have been recently created by DDCs and major line agencies and they have little knowledge about GRB. The second two-day workshop enhanced their knowledge and skills to monitor the budget allocation and effective implementation of GRB by DDC and VDCs. The project team needs to share with the national GRBC the gaps which were found at district and VDC level on gender responsive budgeting. 4.3. Conduct seminars with government agencies: In each project district two seminars were conducted in year 2 to develop the key policy messages and GESI action plan at district level. The four key policy messages have been disseminated at district, VDC and municipality level. They will be also shared at national level. The project also developed radio jingles on these four key policy messages and podcasted them on local FM radios. The project organizes regularly formal and informal meetings with government stakeholders to share lessons learnt, highlight best practices in the application of guidelines and policies, present the application of GRB indicators at local level, and discuss outcomes of the gap review and mock citizen budgets

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2.2.2. Reasons for delays, cancellation, postponement of activities

Most of the planned activities were completed in year 2. Political unrest in Terai slightly hampered the project implementation. The earthquake slightly affected the project implementation too. A few houses and public buildings have been destroyed. Some of the activities like the monitoring visit from the SWC and MoWCSW were postponed a few months due to the political unrest and fuel crisis in Nepal. One district level activity – the workshop to advocate for the adaptation and replication of GRB model at the local level – is postponed to the project year 3.

2.2.3. Modifications in planned activities

The team managed the project with full speed and completed most of the planned activities. There are still some activities remaining like capacity building and coordination with LGCDP in Pyuthan, the DPAC joint monitoring visit in Surkhet and advocacy for the adaptation and replication of the GRB model at local level in both districts. It was planned to review the community score boards twice in year 2, but it was done only once in 20 VDCs and 2 municipalities.

Two mock citizen budgets exercises were planned in year 2, but both project partners organised three mock citizen budgets each to cover the clusters in district. They shared the process with the remaining VDCs. 4 VDCs in each district asked to conduct the full mock citizen budgets exercises and offered to share the costs. So seven events of mock citizen budgets exercises were conducted in each district and it is planned to conduct the mock citizen budgets exercises in the remaining VDCs in year 3.

A quick assessment of the Sankalpa project was done by a team of the Social Welfare Council (SWC) and Ministry of Women, Children and Social Welfare (MoWCSW ) instead of the mid-term evaluation. The team monitored the Sankalpa field activities and provided inputs to the project. The team also interacted with the DPAC members at district level and with IPC members, WCF & Networks Coordinators and CAC members at VDC level.

Because of the fact that the VDCs which are covered by Sankalpa are scattered and remote, the project partners suggest to engage one social mobilize in each VDC instead of having one social mobilize for two VDCs. Therefore, four additional mobilizers shall be employed from June 2016 – January 2017, i.e. the last eight months of the project. No additional budget will be necessary because savings from other budget lines will be used. At the same time the main budget headings won’t be changed by more than 25%.

Some activities proved to be very effective and Sankalpa plans to conduct more of them in year 3: trainings on local-level government planning, budgeting and management process to local government bodies (24 events); orientation on GRB/PPP to WCF members (194 events); joint planning meetings with DDC and VDC on a trimester basis (24 events); trainings on gender budget audit (2 events); network capacity strengthening (24 events); dialogue forums (24 events); interface meetings between right holders and duty bearer (24 events); workshops on gender responsive budget analysis and tracking (24 events). The remaining project budget will cover the cost of these additional activities and no extra budget is needed.

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“Ms Purna Devekota and Ms Bidhya Sahakari, Sankalpa social mobilizers are highly capable to facilitate GESI, GRB, PPP and governance activities at VDC level. We expect other social mobilizers to develop their skills and knowledge like them. They have enough capacity to handle the VDCs’ planning and other activities “ Keshar Bahadur Dangi, Secretary, Hariharpur VDC

“Sankalpa provided continuously support to develop my leadership skills and empowered me socially and economically. I have built my confidence and I can deliver good speeches in any forum. I am recognized as a community leader, WCF coordinator, cooperative member and VDC level women network member. “ Nisha Baijali Magar, Coordinator,

Gothibang CAC, Pyuthan

2.2.5. Results of the Action: Outputs, Outcomes and Impacts

Result One: 80 CACs are running REFLECT classes (so far 1,920 sessions were conducted) with the involvement of 2,289 CAC members (2,138 women and 151 men). All CAC members are representatives of marginalized groups such as Dalits, Janajatis or members from poor and ultra poor families. The project capacitated them on budget literacy, GESI, GRB, PPP, governance and advocacy tools. More than 75% CAC members are participating regularly in CAC classes where they discussed local issues and prepare action plans for each issue. They actively participated in budgetary debates and in the local planning processes and developed 212 proposals to receive funding within the 35% special budget provision. The VDC council approved 111 proposals for CAC wards. Among them 90 CAC proposals were approved for the direct benefit of CAC members. CAC members also participated in the public audit process in their own ward/community. CAC members were able to take leadership roles at VDCs and municipalities at various levels: 39 CAC members are WCF coordinators, 384 are WCF members, 22 are VSMC members, 43 are SMC members and 7 are SMC chairpersons, 23 are IPC members and some of them are engaged in other groups. They are engaged themselves in the budgetary processes in favour of poor & ultra-poor groups and also address local issues like gender based violence, child marriage, control of alcohol selling, Chhaupadi system etc. More than 95% CAC members participated in at least one budget literacy session and around 70% CAC members are perceived to influence decisions about the 35% budget allocation for women, children and DAGs (e.g. for skills development training for women on sewing and knitting, capacity development activities for women, women’s rights, support in goat raising as income generation, construction of meeting halls for women, income generating activities for people with disabilities, nutrition support for pregnant women, capacity development for CAC members, equipment support for birth centres, activities to reduce Chhaupadi practices, improved potable water supply etc.). (Annex 1: Case Studies)

Result Two: In close coordination with LGCDP/DDC and VDCs and municipalities, the project has been able to engage 19,623 people (10,470 women and 9,153 men) from local authorities, VDCs, WCFs, IPCs, women networks and other agencies. They participated in a series of meetings, orientation sessions and trainings on GRB and GESI in the planning process which increased their knowledge on GESI, GRB tools and the mandatory focus on women, children and DAGs as per resource mobilization guidelines of the Government of Nepal. Local government actors also learned about the concepts of GESI and GRB, governance tools and the importance to have an inclusive planning process addressing the priorities of women and DAGs. VDC Secretaries enhanced their capacity to conduct mock citizen budget exercises, community score boards, trimester review meetings, interface/public hearings, public audits and gap analyses for effective implementation of different VDCs projects. There was more than 50% women’s participation (which is more than before) during the local planning meetings. The participants of these budget planning meetings made a commitment to

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“Sankalpa established a GRB model in the project VDCs. We as DDC should replicate the learning from the project to the remaining VDCs of the district. We also request to CARE to expand the project learning to the remaining VDCs and municipalities in Surkhet. “ Tanka Prasad Lamichhane, Social Mobilization Officer, DDC Surkhet

increase the participation of women and DAGs in all activities organized by the local government by establishing effective information systems to reach them. Women and DAGs received information through students, school management committees, networks, telephone contact, formal letters and information boards in each ward of the VDCs. Public audits of 60 projects (85 events) have been conducted in the frame of the project. As a result of the public audits, public service providers are more accountable towards the citizens. Public audits helped to maintain transparency on the allocated budgets and also helped to improve the program quality. All project VDCs reviewed 24 community score boards at least one time in year 2, conducted at least one interface meeting and conducted two to three trimester review meetings. The governance related activities increased the timely implementation of the VDC activities and reduced the chances to freeze the VDC budgets. A system of cooperation between government and non-government actors was established at VDC level. The governance tools (community score boards, interface meetings, trimester reviews, public audits etc.) contributed to the improvement of the quality of government services in a friendly manner. VDCs introduced notice boards, complain boxed and citizen charters as a consequence of community score boards and other activities. Result Three: The project mobilized and capacitated the two CSOs coalitions consisting of at least 10 CSOs in each project district. The members of CSOs are working in the sectors of women’s rights, reproductive health, governance, local planning process facilitation and children’s issues like health and education. 1,326 CSO employees and members (486 women and 740 men) attended several meetings, workshops and trainings organized and facilitated by the project. They participated in workshops on the development of key policy messages as well as in budget monitoring at local level, in GESI audits at district level, in trimester review meetings and mock citizen budget exercises at VDC level. Sharing and learning experiences among the CSOs reduced the duplication of activities in the same VDCs and created synergies for joint advocacy to increase policy advocacy and reduce problems on the district level. The CSO coalitions prepared a plan to collect information, conduct awareness raising activities on policies and guidelines of the government and coordinate with relevant stakeholders. They identified various issues at local level and they advocated for them and got funding within the 35% special VDC budget provision (parental property rights of women, control of alcohol consumption/selling, reduction of gender based violence and child marriage). Key policy messages on 4 issues (GBV, child marriage, women’s participation and leadership, implementation of GESI policies and provisions) were developed and disseminated at district level in year 2. The entire project VDCs conducted interface events, trimester review meetings and public audits in the leadership of VDC and facilitated by the project. 14 mock citizen budget exercises were conducted at VDC level with. Result Four: Altogether 618 participants (372 women, 246 men) participated in capacity building trainings. 86 members (47 women and 39 men) from the District Gender Responsive Budget Committee (DGBRC) and the District Social Mobilization Committee (DSMC) were trained on GRB and GESI in the local planning process in year 2. They increased their knowledge on GRB and effective monitoring of local VDCs and municipalities and DDC budget allocation for the benefit of women, children and DAGs. DGRBC and DSMC members were trained how to hold local authorities accountable for their performance. They shared their

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experience about GRB implementation at local level with the national GRB committee for replication in other districts. The two CSO coalitions established close coordination and good relationship with DGRBC and DSMC which will contribute to the capacity building of these committees on budget tracking and mock budget preparation. They can share key messages with the local and national government for policy advocacy. Altogether 196 participants (93 women, 103 men) participated in the development of key policy messages and of a GESI action plan at district level. 4 workshops were organized at district level to develop four key messages. The implementation of policy messages is taking place on district as well as VDC level through various means like IWD, 16 days campaign against gender violence, the Teej festival etc. Two large CAC summits were organized as learning and sharing workshops in both districts. CAC role models participated in the summits and shared their change stories. Altogether 336 participants (232 women, 104 men) participated in the summit. DDC and WCDO were leading the organisation of the summit and CSOs jointly facilitated the summit program.

2.3. Logframe

The logframe has not been changed in this reporting period.

2.4. Updated action plan

Sankalpa - Year 3 (February 2016 – January 2017)

First Half-year 3 Second Half-year 3

Activity 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 Implementing body

Monitoring & Progress Reviews

All applicants and partners

Donor reporting (Year 2) CARE

Final Evaluation SWC,

Independent Evaluator

ER 1

A. 1.1 Refresher Training for CAC Facilitator (LRPs)

SAC, KDC

A 1.2 Roll-out of Trainings across CACs

SAC, KDC

A 1.3 Mentoring of CAC members nominated to WCF and IPC

SAC, KDC

A 1.4 Formation and strengthening of CAC Networks

SAC, KDC

A 1.5 On-going CAC Sensitization and Orientation SAC, KDC

A 1.6 Action Plans and Social Campaigns SAC, KDC

A 1.7. Community Score Board (CSB) review and implementation

CARE, SAC, KDC

A 1.8 Orientation on VDC demand form (proposal) for funding

SAC, KDC

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Sankalpa - Year 3 (February 2016 – January 2017)

First Half-year 3 Second Half-year 3

Activity 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 Implementing body

ER 2

A 2.1 Coordination with LGCDP

CARE, SAC, KDC

A 2.2 Training for LBs on gender and inclusion in local planning

SAC, KDC

A 2.3 Surge capacities, resources and guidelines during Planning Cycle

SAC, KDC

A 2.4 Support for VDCs to conduct gender responsive Public Audits

SAC, KDC

A 2.5 Coordination with DSMC/DGBRC SAC, KDC

A 2.6 Coordination and Monitoring Committee at VDC level

SAC, KDC

Interface Activities (ER1, ER2)

A I. Multi-Stakeholder WS on GRB and model refinement

CARE, SAC, KDC

A II. Interface between Right Holder and Duty Bearer SAC, KDC

A III. Joint monitoring and cross-learning

CARE, SAC, KDC

ER 3

A 3.1 CSO dialogue forums CARE, SAC, KDC

A 3.2. Training on Gender Budget & Audit to LBs (DDCs and VDCs)

CARE, SAC, KDC

A 3.3 Mock Citizen Budgets at VDC level SAC, KDC

ER 4

A 4.1 Implementation of key policy messages for evidence based advocacy

CARE, SAC, KDC

A 4.2 Work with GoN GRB Committee CARE

A 4.3 Seminars with government agencies CARE

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3. Beneficiaries/affiliated entities and other Cooperation

3.1. Partners and other Cooperation

A strong relationship was maintained between CARE and both project partners, the Social Awareness Centre in Surkhet and Kalika Development Centre in Pyuthan. Both implementing partners have an excellent cooperation with the government and other stakeholders. CARE built capacity of the project on GESI, GRB, governance and social mobilization. CARE and its partners played an active role in establishing the relationships among the CSOs in the districts. All project partners respect each others values, norms, policy and procedures and share their expertise and learning. The project team enhanced their cooperation and linkages with LGCDP/DDC, VDC, IPC, WCF and line agencies working with women, children and marginalized groups. Sankalpa team members and local resource people received training on case stories and proposal writing to enhance their writing skills. KDC facilitated a workshop on quality bench mark setting for the Sankalpa project.

3.2. Relationship with State Authorities

Sankalpa created a favourable environment for developing good relationships and linkages with the local and national level state authorities such as VDCs and municipalities, LGCDP/DDC, WCDO, DDRC, DAO, DPO, NGO federation, media. CAC members are representing marginalized women. A sign of the good cooperation between the project and state authorities is the fact that government offices (DDC and WCDO) were very involved in the organisation of the two CAC summits. During the monitoring visit of SWC and MoWCSW representatives of CACs, IPCs, WCFs, different networks and DPAC highly appreciated the project, its quality and relationship with government representatives. VDC secretaries strongly support the project activities and facilitated the mock citizen budgets and governance tools like community score boards, public audits, trimester review meetings etc. Some of the VDCs also provided resources to organize mock citizen budget exercises and trainings on GESI, GRB, PPP training for IPC and other members.

3.3. Relationship with Other Organisations

The project has been implemented in close coordination with other organisations and tries to build linkages with them to create synergies and reduce duplication. Relationship with Civil Society Organizations: In expected result 3 the project focuses on joint cooperation with district CSOs to implement GRB and capacity building of local government bodies. The development of a CSO coalition in each district and joint advocacy on GRB implementation is a key element to reach the objectives of the project. CSOs are responsible to monitor the local government and make them accountable for their performance. Since the beginning, the project tried to unite like-minded organizations and develop a coalition. At least 10 CSOs are involved in the coalition in each project district and they are working together to solve district level GESI & governance related problems/issues. A team of resource persons from CSOs was created and provided with a ToT (training of trainer) program on GESI and GRB. A local resource person from the CSO coalition was hired by the Sankalpa project to develop a CAC facilitation manual (in Nepali language) which consists of four modules (social mobilization, GRB, GESI in planning process and monitoring with GESI perspective). The CAC

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facilitation manual is published by the project and provided to the CSOs for their use. The CSOs participated in the key policy messages development process. They also developed the GESI action plan at district level and commitment for implementation. Final Beneficiaries and Target groups: The final beneficiaries of the project are 122,000 community members (51% of them are women) of 20 VDCs and 14 wards of 2 municipalities of Surkhet and Pyuthan. The target groups of the project are 2,289 members (93% women) of 80 Citizen Awareness Centres (CACs), 4,850 members of WCF (33% women), 550 members of IPC (33% women), 480 members of VSMC (33% women) and 330 members of WN (100% women) in two districts. The project successfully reached directly 73,009 people (48,711 women and 21,883 men as well as 1,542 girls and 873 boys including 17,395 Dalits, 16,215 Janajatis and 23,856 others) during this reporting period through meetings, orientation sessions, trainings and social actions in both districts. The participants of these events were from different groups of society representing various organizations and social groups from local to district level. The project has a good relationship with its beneficiaries and target groups. Other Donors, other Government Units and NGOs: There is a good relationship between the project, the local government and NGOs working together as demand and supply sides. Among others, the cooperation with the Local Governance and Community Development Program (LGCDP) is an achievement because it increases the sustainability of the Sankalpa project. The project enhances the capacities of NGOs on GRB implementation and budget tracking. It supports the local government to implement its program and policies (as per RMG 2069). The project works as a bridge between civil society organizations and the government to minimize the gaps between them and to ensure sustainability of the results.

3.4. Links and Synergies Developed with Other Actions

The project established linkages and coordinates with LGCDP/DDC, VDCs, DADO, Save the Children, PACT, Multi-Sectors Forestry Program, PAF, Oxfam, SNV, UNFPA, MEDEP, GIZ and other I/NGOs. The project team participated frequently in relevant events organized by the local government, line agencies, INGOs and other stakeholders. They were also invited to participate in learning/sharing workshops at VDC and district level. Enhanced linkages and coordination with various organizations created synergies and helped to reduce the duplication of project activities and to ensure sustainability.

3.5. Previous relevant EU grants

CARE received many grants from the EU for different projects, many of them with a focus on gender and women empowerment as well as on governance. However, this is the first EU grant for gender responsive budgeting in Surkhet and Pyuthan.

4. Visibility The following actions were carried out to ensure the visibility of the EU contribution in this

project:

CAC booklets were published in Nepali with the logos of the EU, ADA and CARE.

Several articles related to project activities were published in local newspapers with due acknowledgment of the EU and ADA as donors.

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The logos of the EU, ADA, CARE and the partners appear on office boards placed at CARE’s field office.

Community score boards were placed in all project VDCs with logos of the EU, ADA, Government of Nepal, project partners and CARE.

Banners with logos of the EU, ADA, CARE and partners were used in all activities organized at VDC and district level – such as trainings, workshops, rallies, street drama and other actions. (Annex 5: Activity pictures with visibility)

Annexes

Annex 1: Case studies Annex 2: AR & RM report Annex 3: Cross learning visit report Annex 4: DPAC monitoring visit report Annex 5: Activity pictures with visibility

Name of the contact person for the Action: Julia Weber, Programme Officer Asia Signature: Location: Lange Gasse 30/4, 1080 Vienna, Austria Date report due: 31 May 2016 Date report sent: 23 June 2016