Milfrid Tonheim and Kåre Lode with inputs from Ibrahim Ag Youssouf and Balekembaka Musifiri Adolphe

This project evaluates the performance and the impact of the "1,000 Micro-projects for socio-economic reintegration of ex-combatants, ex-militia members and youth at risk in Côte d'Ivoire", a project jointly run by the DDR Division of UNOCI and UNDP's Post-Crisis Unit in Côte d'Ivoire. The focus of the evaluation is on project's impact on beneficiaries, communities and peace and security in Côte d'Ivoire, as well as the efficiency and effectiveness of procedures and mechanisms employed to identify, select and implement micro projects. The evaluation also assesses the project's gender approach, and finally, seeks to provide recommendations to guide the further implementation of micro projects. The fieldwork in Côte d'Ivoire was conducted during two intensive weeks in October 2009. The study had a qualitative approach employing methods like document analyses, observation, informal conversations, group interviews, individual semi-structured interviews and workshop discussions with all national and international stakeholders.

All in all, the evaluation team concludes that the implementation of the "1,000 Micro-projects" have proven effective with regards to its global objective to contribute to reinforcement of peace and security in the Côte d'Ivoire through the provision of socioeconomic reintegration options to former combatants, ex-militias members and youth at risk. All stakeholders agreed that the "1,000 MP" has been successful in reaching its objective. The micro projects have given the beneficiaries a new self-esteem, a feeling of hope and a possibility to plan their future. The local community leaders insist that the projects restored peace in their area, and in most cases the whole local community benefited directly or indirectly of the program. The "1,000 Micro-projects" were a response to a critical and urgent situation and hence somewhat hastily put in place, however, based on a trial-and-error philosophy several weaknesses have been corrected along the way. The implementation has, thus, been flexible and attentive to the realities in the field.

The evaluation also addresses the main weaknesses in the organisation and implementation of the project, and suggests recommendation for the next phase of the project.