ICAI, supported by Agulhas, published a performance review on DFID’s approach to building resilience to natural disasters.
Between 2011 and 2015, the Department for International Development (DFID) conducted a process of mainstreaming resilience objectives into all relevant programmes.
ICAI found that DFID’s approach to mainstreaming proved to be broadly effective. It prioritised countries at particular risk from natural disasters, and it allowed DFID to test its strategy and build up a body of experience.
However, the approach to mainstreaming also led to some gaps and because the mainstreaming process is now over, there is a risk that practice may slip backwards.
ICAI also found that in spite of inadequacies in DFID’s formal results measurement, the resilience components of programmes were generally performing well, and were likely to contribute to reducing the impact of disasters, strengthening preparedness or increasing the resilience of the targeted communities.
Overall, the report found that DFID has taken a well-considered approach to mainstreaming resilience, resulting in a good level of focus in the countries reviewed. However, there are gaps in DFID’s results monitoring practices, at both programme and portfolio level, and in its learning processes.
Areas of Expertise:
- Better development
- Resilience and sustainability
- Conflict and fragility