Redesign of Phase IV of the Nepal Micro Enterprise Development Program (MEDEP)

Project Description

The Micro Enterprise Development Programme (MEDEP, the Programme) is a joint Government of Nepal (GoN) and UNDP initiative that aims to expand employment opportunities for the poor, youth, women and individuals from socially excluded groups in selected districts in Nepal. The Programme started in July 1998 and is currently being implemented in 38 of Nepal’s 75 districts. Australia has been funding MEDEP since 2006. The Programme is in its third phase (MEDEP III) and the GoN, UNDP and Australia are considering supporting the fourth phase of MEDEP (MEDEP IV). A major focus of MEDEP IV therefore is expected to be to support the Capacity Development of the MoI and work towards the transitioning of MEDEP to MEDPA. Detailed information on MEDEP and MEDPA are contained in the background documentation supplied.

Assignment Description

Read and consider all relevant documentation provided; • consult with in-country stakeholders (including beneficiaries, GoN, UNDP and AusAID) to gain additional information and insights as required; • Following the UNDP template, redraft the project design to satisfy the requirements of UNDP, GoN and AusAID. • clarifying and better detailing the three identified components of MEDEP IV (these are (i) micro-enterprise development and livelihoods support, (ii) capacity development of GoN to take on MEDEP and manage MEDPA, and (iii) value chain analysis to support better targeted livelihoods and employment generation) and establishing an overall theory of change; • strengthening the design for Component 2 taking into consideration the recommendations from the “MEDEP Capacity Assessment Report” and in light of the Government’s MEDPA Programme to ensure a more realistic transition to the MEDPA Programme; • redesigning Component 2, also considering the existing GoN/MoI structure and present the MOI structure suitable for a successful transitioning for MEDEP to MEDPA and the successful implementation of the MEDPA programme, identifying a path to sustainability as well as clear indicators necessary for hand-over to GoN aspects of the program; • strengthening the monitoring and evaluation framework and results chain (including the Results & Resources Framework ( RRF) for MEDEP IV and ensuring that the framework and its relevant indicators are aligned with the DCED standards – in doing so ensure that the M&E Framework and the results chain are also aligned with the RRF; • ensuring that a realistic mechanism for managing and delivering Component 3 is developed; appropriate lines of accountability, and partners identified in line with their comparative advantages in this area; • reviewing the proposed staffing structure of MEDEP IV and revise to ensure staffing structure corresponds to the objectives and the different components of the Programme; • strengthening the risk log for MEDEP IV and ensure it reflects the program theory of change • Preparation of Reports