Evaluation of the project "Empowering youth at risk as resources for sustaining peace and community resilience in Tonkolili and Kenema districts in Sierra Leone"

Abstract

This report concerns the evaluation of the PBF-funded project jointly implemented by FAO, UNDP and UNFPA to support youth at risk in Sierra Leone to reintegrate into their community and families, and at the same time, advocate for institutional reforms that address the core question of recruitment of youth into cliques and gangs. It aims to inform the project stakeholders and other interested parties about project achievements and lessons learned. The project effectively helped support the economic and social empowerment of youth at risk and strengthen trust between beneficiaries and their communities. However, weaknesses such as failure to finish and deliver youth livelihood facilities and materials and the absence of clear communication reduced the sustainability of gains and the likelihood of impact. It is recommended to complete all project activities and engage exit plan, streamline future procurement mechanisms and process, engage systems that encourage local contractors, start drug and alcohol counselling at commencement of project, incorporate mental health and psychosocial counselling, encourage better data collection as part of project monitoring, and consider a longer-term timeframe for programming.