Sub-Saharan Africa Transport Policy Program

	SSATP > Local transport solutions for rural development > Build on experiences


	Local Transport Solutions (Main Index)

	Develop policies
	Include all stakeholders
	Improve the image
	Plan for integrated use
	Define needs, promote options
	Prioritise and concentrate resources
	Ensure availability and maintainence
	Market actively
	Build on experiences
	Network and collaborate

	Further Information (References,background and contacts)
	Texte Francais

Build on experiences

Programmes should learn from experiences, involving all stakeholders in participative monitoring and open and rigorous evaluations. The lessons from evaluations should be documented and widely shared to allow everyone to learn and progress from both positive and negative experiences.

Farmers in Guinea discussing
technology options

Transport planners learning from the experience of an artisanal cart manufacturer in Madagascar

Monitoring requires reliable stakeholder opinions
Self-critical monitoring and objective evaluation are fundamental to the success of programmes developing or promoting local transport solutions. Without monitoring, enthusiasm for particular technologies may lead to lack of objectivity and irrational optimism despite disappointing adoption patterns. It is necessary to include potential users (of different genders, status, purchasing power, etc) and other stakeholders in planning, monitoring and evaluation procedures. Peer-to-peer discussions can help stakeholders talk honestly about their needs, concerns and willingness to invest in technologies. Information on user-perspectives must be cross-checked with objective sales and use patterns.

Rigorous self-evaluation with networking partners
Regular objective evaluation is also vital. Many programmes fear the potential for criticism that may come with external evaluations. Sympathetic evaluators are often selected. This is more comfortable in the short term, but restricts the potential for learning and programme changes. Self-evaluation, aided by an independent external person, can be useful and may involve both programme staff and key stakeholders. If someone from a transport project in another country assists an evaluation, the learning process benefits two programmes simultaneously.

Prototype bicycle side car in Sri Lanka