Kwenda’s financial execution ended US$3.3 million below budget, with the Local Development Institute (FAS) set to return the unused funds to the World Bank. Pilot projects for Kwenda II, which aims to incorporate new areas of intervention, have already begun in several cities and provinces.
Despite logistical challenges that affected the implementation of Kwenda—particularly in remote areas characterised by limited banking coverage and low levels of financial inclusion—the programme reached 6.8 million people across its various components, exceeding the original target of 5 million beneficiaries by 1.8 million. It also received a positive evaluation from the World Bank, which financed the initiative through a US$320 million loan.
The programme’s second phase is now shifting its focus towards urban centres.
The assessment was carried out by the Independent Evaluation Group (IEG), an independent unit within the World Bank Group responsible for evaluating the financial implementation and real-world impact of projects financed by the multilateral institution.
In Kwenda’s case, financial execution came in below budget, with US$316 million of the planned US$320 million ultimately spent (see infographic on the following page). The programme was implemented by FAS – Local Development Institute.
Although the Angolan government had pledged to contribute US$100 million, it did not reach that commitment. The evaluation, which focused solely on the World Bank’s financing, does not specify the amount directly funded by public entities.
“The amount disbursed totalled US$319.3 million. However, at project closure, it was verified that only US$316.0 million had been utilised, leaving a balance of US$3.3 million in the designated account,” the World Bank explained in its final evaluation report.
“Although the transfer process has progressed slowly, preparations are underway for the reimbursement, as agreed jointly between FAS and the Bank,” meaning that the unused funds will be returned to the lender.
In addition to reviewing financial execution, the IEG assessment also evaluated the programme’s achievement of its objectives, as well as its monitoring and supervision mechanisms and the results delivered.
Source: Expansão
