Food for the Hungry/ (FH/E) Development Food Security Activity (DFSA) Targeted Response for Agriculture, Income and Nutrition (TRAIN) Project

Year III First Quarter Report October 1 to December 31, 2018

Revised Submission Date: Feb 20, 2019 [Contract/Agreement] Number: [AID-FFP-A-16-00007] Activity Start Date and End Date: Sep 30, 2016 – Sep 29, 2021 [COR/AOR] Name: Clifford Davison

Submitted by: Anthony E. Koomson Senior Director for Public Resources 1001 Connecticut Ave NW Suite 1115, Washington, DC 20036 Tel: 202-480-2540 Email: [email protected]

1. PROJECT OVERVIEW/ SUMMARY

Targeted Response for Agriculture, Income Program Name: and Nutrition Activity Start Date And End Date: Sep 30, 2016 – Sep 29, 2021 Name of Prime Implementing Partner: Food for the Hungry

[Contract/Agreement] Number: AID-FFP-A-16-00007 Amhara Credit and Saving Institution, Amhara Name of Subcontractors/Sub- Development Association, and Search For Common awardees: Ground Regional, Zonal and District level Government Line Major Counterpart Organizations Offices Ethiopia, Amhara Regional State, Seven Districts [Lay Geographic Coverage Gayint, , Sedi-Muja, , Abergele, Sahila and Ziquala. Reporting Period: October 1 to December 31, 2018

FH Ethiopia TRAIN Project FY’19 First Quarter Report, Resubmitted February 20, 2019 ii

Table of Contents

1. PROJECT OVERVIEW/ SUMMARY ...... ii 2. PROJECT DESCRIPTION/INTRODUCTION ...... 1 3. ACTIVITY IMPLEMENTATION PROGRESS ...... 1 PURPOSE 1: IMPROVED RESILIENCE OF HHS/COMMUNITIES TO SHOCKS ...... 2 PURPOSE 2: INCREASED AVAILABILITY OF SAFE, DIVERSE, NUTRITIOUS AND HIGH-VALUE FOODS ...... 7 PURPOSE 3: INCREASED EQUITABLE INCOME FOR MEN, WOMEN AND YOUTH ...... 11 PURPOSE 4: IMPROVED NUTRITION FOR CHILDREN UNDER FIVE (CU5), PREGNANT AND LACTATING WOMEN (PLW) and WOMENI IN REPRODUCTIVE AGE (WRA), INCLUDING ADOLESCENT GIRLS ...... 14 4. INTEGRATION OF CROSS CUTTING ISSUES AND USAID FORWARD PRIORITIES AND PROGRESS ...... 16 4.1 Gender Equality and Female Empowerment ...... 16 4.2 Policy and Government Support ...... 17 4.3 Local Capacity Development ...... 17 5. STAKEHOLDERS PARTICIPATION AND INVOLVEMENT ...... 20 6. MANAGEMENT AND ADMINISTARATION ISSUES ...... 20 7. LESSONS LEARNED ...... 21 8. PLANNED ACTIVITIES FOR NEXT QUARTER INCLUDING UPCOMING EVENTS ...... 21 9. HOW IMPLEMENTING PARTNER HAS ADDRESSED HAS ADDRESSED A/COR COMMENTS FROM THE LAST QUARTER REPORT ...... 22 10. FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT ...... 22 11. SUCCESS STORIES ...... 22

FH Ethiopia TRAIN Project FY’19 First Quarter Report, Resubmitted February 20, 2019 iii List of Figures Figure 1. Partial view of quarterly review meeting participants, Sahila Woreda ...... 3 Figure 2. Hillside terrace construction, Kebele 08, Tach Gayint ...... 5 Figure 3. Micro basin in Kebele 08, Tach Gayint ...... 5 Figure 4. Government DAs on theoretical (left) and practical training, Simada Woreda ...... 6 Figure 5. PW site foremen/women training, Ziquala Woreda ...... 6 Figure 6. Market price information posted on on billboard in FTC compound, Kebele 03,Tach Gayint ...... 12 Figure 7. SHG members under discussion and, Tach Gayint ...... 12 Figure 8. Community Facilitators Review Meeting, Sahila...... 13 Figure 9. Mother-to-mother session on EHA, Tach Gayint ...... 16

List of Tables

Table 1. Extended round commodity allocation by Woreda and beneficiary ...... 9 Table 2.Fedder roads maintained/constructed by Woreda ...... 11

FH Ethiopia TRAIN Project FY’19 First Quarter Report, Resubmitted February 20, 2019 iv Acronyms and Abbreviations

ACSI Amhara Credit and Saving Institution ADA Amhara Development Association ANC Antenatal Care ANRS Amhara National Regional State ARARI Amhara Regional Agricultural Research Institute BoQ Bill Of Quantity CG Care Group CLTS Community Led Total Sanitation DA Development Agent DFSA Development Food Security Activity DPFSPCO Disaster Preparedness and Food Security Program Coordination Office DRR Disaster Risk Reduction EHA Essential Hygiene Action ENA Essential Nutrition Action EW Early Warning FDP Final Distribution Point FGD Focus Group Discussion FTC Farmers Training Center FY Fiscal Year GISA Global Inspection Survey Agency GoE Government of Ethiopia GOG Gender Outreach Group GTP Growth and Transformation Plan Ha Hectare HEW Health Extension Worker HHs Households HNA Health and Nutrition Animators ICT Information Communication Technology IO Intermediate Outcome JAP Joint Action Plan JEOP Joint Emergency Operation Plan Kg Kilogram LG Livelihood Group MCHN Maternal and Child Health and Nutrition MIL Mother-in-law MoFEC Ministry of Finance and Economic Cooperation MoLSA Ministry of Labor and Social Affairs MT Metric Ton ODF Open Defecation Free PDS Permanent Direct Support PLW Pregnant and Lactating Women PNC Postnatal Care PSNP Productive Safety Net Programme PW Public Work

FH Ethiopia TRAIN Project FY’19 First Quarter Report, Resubmitted February 20, 2019 v RH Reproductive Health SA Social Accountability SAC Social Accountability Committee SBCC Social and Behavior Change Communication SHG Self Help Group SWC Soil and Water Conservation TRAIN Targeted Response for Agriculture, Income and Nutrition USAID United States Agency for International Development WASH Water, Sanitation and Hygiene WHDA Women Health Development Army WOANR Woreda Office of Agriculture and Natural Resource WoWCA Woreda Office of Women and Children Affair WRA Women of Reproductive Age

FH Ethiopia TRAIN Project FY’19 First Quarter Report, Resubmitted February 20, 2019 vi

2. PROJECT DESCRIPTION/INTRODUCTION

FH/E has been implementing the USAID financed DFSA-TRAIN project in seven Woredas (4 in South Gondar and 3 in Wag-Himra zones) of Amhara. FY’19 is the third year of TRAIN which runs from October 1 through September 30, 2019. This is the first quarter report which briefly discusses the activities implemented from Oct - Dec, 2018. The overarching goal of TRAIN is to enhance resilience to shocks and livelihoods and to improve food security and nutrition for rural households (HHs) vulnerable to food insecurity, with four purposes, eleven sub-purposes and associated intermediate outcomes (IOs). This narrative report is presented by purpose, sub-purpose and intermediate outcome following the log-frame of the project.

3. ACTIVITY IMPLEMENTATION PROGRESS

This section is divided in-to two major sub-sections. These are progress narrative and implementation status. The progress narrative section presents the summary of the quarter accomplishment while the implementation status section discusses the details of each activity. 3.1 PROGRESS NARRATIVE:

The summary of activities carried out in the reporting quarter are briefly presented below.

Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR): In the reporting quarter, 518 DRR committee members were trained on Disaster Risk Management techniques. A total of 110 individuals participated in coordination meetings held across the seven Woredas and a total of 271 individuals participated in the review meetings.

Soil and water conservation (SWC) activities: An estimated area of 1,690 ha of land was covered with different SWC activities using Public Work (PW) labor during the quarter.

Social infrastructure: In the reporting quarter, construction sites were identified, standard design documents collected, bill of quantities and specifications prepared and purchase process for construction materials started.

Trainings: A range of trainings were conducted in the reporting quarter though some planned trainings were postponed to next quarter.

Food distribution: A total of 1258.54 MT of food was prepositioned to FDPs in hot spot 1 Woredas for extra round distribution. The distribution is planned for a total of 74,250 beneficiaries.

Irrigation schemes: Site identification, standard design document collection, BoQ preparation and industrial material purchase is underway.

FH Ethiopia TRAIN Project FY’19 First Quarter Report, Resubmitted February 20, 2019 1

Feeder road construction: A total of 108.3 Km (103.3 Km maintenance and 5 km. new construction) roads were fixed;

Gender Outreach Group (GOG): In the reporting quarter, 425 GoG discussion sessions were carried out (48% of the target).

Health and nutrition: nutrition day celebrations were conducted in twenty seven locations, 1091 PLW linked with soul fathers and 7,900 PLW participated in modular sessions on EHA.

3.2 . IMPLEMENTATION STATUS

The implementation status of each activity is discussed under this section.

PURPOSE 1: IMPROVED RESILIENCE OF HH/COMMUNITIES TO SHOCKS The activities under this purpose are aimed to improve the absorptive and adaptive capacities of HHs and communities. The activities accomplished in the quarter are discussed as follows:

SP 1.1: Improved Relevance, Function, Responsiveness of Existing/New DRR Committees

IO 1.1.1: Enhanced use of national and regional Early Warning (EW) at Kebele level Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) committee members training: Two days training was given to 518 DRR committee members (90% of the planned 576) on community managed disaster risk reduction techniques. The trainees were drawn from 125 Kebele DRR committees. Of the participants, 158 (30%) and 116 (22%) were female and youth, respectively. The training was aimed at improving the knowledge base of the committee members. These Kebele DRR committee members are expected to share weekly and monthly early warning information to Woreda offices. The early warning information to be shared include: fast onset hazard, crop pest infestation, incidence of rampant livestock and human diseases. The information will also be shared to the relevant institutions at Zonal and Regional levels.

Establish Local Coordination Mechanisms: These are joint coordination meetings of the Kebele and Woreda DRR committee members. The quarter plan was to conduct one meeting in each TRAIN Woreda. Accordingly, all Woredas conducted the meetings (100% of the plan). A total of 110 individuals 31(29%) female and 18 (17 %) youth attended the meetings. The points discussed in the meetings were: setting due dates for early warning information sharing; how to strengthen Kebele DRR committees; how to report shocks and how to document early warning information. The participants also exchanged information on weather condition, pasture availability, crop and livestock body condition, market situations, and nutrition and food security situation.

Organize Quarterly review Meetings: Seven meetings (one in each of the seven target Woredas) were conducted (100% of the quarter plan). A total of 271 individuals attended the meeting, of which 45 (17%) were female and 57 (21%) were youth. The participants were drawn from Woreda offices of Education, Health, Water, Livestock Development and

FH Ethiopia TRAIN Project FY’19 First Quarter Report, Resubmitted February 20, 2019 2 Agriculture. Representatives of Kebele DRR committees also attended the meeting. The primary purpose of the meeting was to review the performance of Kebele DRR committees. The issues raised and reviewed were: early warning data quality, current livelihood situation of each Kebele (potable water access both for human and animal, livestock feed availability, livestock body condition, human health condition and malnutrition), major causes of school dropouts and current food security situation.

Figure 1. Partial view of quarterly review meeting participants, Sahila Woreda

S P 1.2: Improved Conservation of Watersheds IO 1.2.1. Improved Soil and Water Conservation This IO involves a range of bio-physical SWC activities that are aimed at curbing soil erosion and conserve moisture. The activities performed in the reporting quarter are briefly discussed as follows. Physical conservation measures: In the reporting quarter various physical SWC structures were constructed. The structures were built using Public Work (PW) labor with the objective of arresting soil erosion and conserving water. In addition to the SWC structures, areas were closed and protected from human and livestock interference. As a result, an estimated area of 1,690 ha of land was treated in the reporting quarter. The physical SWC structures built include: Soil bund, Stone faced soil bund, stone bund, hill side terrace, bench terrace, micro- basin, hillside terrace with trench, eyebrow basin, water collection trench, area closure, stone check dam and brushwood check dam.

Details of the SWC structures constructed on private and communal lands is given below.

FH Ethiopia TRAIN Project FY’19 First Quarter Report, Resubmitted February 20, 2019 3 a. Physical Structures Constructed on Private Land: Soil bund, stone faced soil bund and stone bund were constructed on private land. A total of 4.9km of soil bund, 44.2km stone faced soil bund and 15km stone bund were constructed. About 69.06 ha of land was treated with these three conservation structures on private farm lands. b. Physical Structures Constructed on Communal Land: The following physical conservation structures were implemented in communal lands.

Bench terrace construction: Bench terraces are constructed in dry to moist agro-ecological zones. In the reporting quarter, a total of 15.32km bench terrace was constructed. As a result, an estimated area of 15.9 ha of land was conserved. Landless youth will be give the user rights on the conserved land t so that they generate income from beekeeping and sale of grass while protecting the structures.

Hillside Terrace: A total of 188.5 km hillside terraces were constructed on heavily degraded steep slopes. The structures help to hold runoff and is effective to conserve water and sediments on lands with steep slopes. The conserved moistures and sediments create favorable condition to grow multipurpose trees including fodder. An estimated area of 94.25 ha of land was treated due to the construction of hillside terraces.

Micro-basin construction: These structures constructed on all range of slopes and soil types except on highly degraded lands. In moist areas, they are used as a medium in which tree/fodder are planted whereas in dry areas they can harvest water to be used for various purposes. A total of 8,236 micro basins were constructed. As a result of the construction of micro-basins, about 10.09 ha of land was treated. Hillside terrace construction combined with trench: a total of 71 km hillside terraces combined with trench was constructed to build on areas with steep slopes (up to 50% slope) and shallow to medium depth soils. As the result of these combined structures’ constructed on hills, an estimated of 35.5 ha of land was treated. Eyebrow basin construction: These are larger circular and stone faced conservation structures in which trees can be planted. A total of 1,813 eyebrow basins were constructed in selected areas. An estimated of 2.22 ha of land was treated due the constructions of eyebrow basins. Water collection trench (percolation pits construction): The water collection trench is vital to collect run-off water during the rainy season and utilized during the dry season. In this quarter, 13,716 water collection trenches were constructed. As a result, about 32.89 ha of land was protected. Structures / measures undertaken on all land types: The following three conservation measures were practiced on all land types:

Area closure: This conservation measure involves integrated systems for bio-physical rehabilitation of degraded lands. In order to recover and rehabilitate degraded land, a total of 1,426 ha of land was protected from livestock and human interference.

Check dams: These structures are constructed using stones and supported mostly by biological materials. The materials can be living or dead branches, wooden poles, gabions, etc. In the reporting quarter, a total of 4,671 m3 stone check dam and190 m3 brushwood check dam were constructed to rehabilitate selected gullies. As a result, 1.94 ha of gully was rehabilitated.

FH Ethiopia TRAIN Project FY’19 First Quarter Report, Resubmitted February 20, 2019 4 Cut of drains: Cut off drains are graded channels that intercept and divert the surface runoff from higher ground/slopes. It protects downstream-cultivated land or villages from floods. A total of 1,891 m3 cut-off drains were constructed in the quarter.

Figure 2. Hillside terrace, Kebele 08, Tach Gayint

Figure 3. Micro basin in Kebele 08, Tach Gayint IO1.2.2 Improved community and HH capacity on SWC practices: Development Agents’ (DA) training on SWC techniques: A total of 178 (54% of the planned 329) government Development Agents (DAs) were trained on SWC techniques. Of the trainees, 58 (33%) were female and 136 (76%) were youth. It is believed that the training has equipped and motivated government DAs to be able to work towards public work quality. The under accomplishment is attributed to the engagement of the resource persons with other priorities in some Woredas. The training in those Woredas will be given in the upcoming quarter.

FH Ethiopia TRAIN Project FY’19 First Quarter Report, Resubmitted February 20, 2019 5

Figure 4. Government DAs on theoretical (left) and practical training, Simada Woreda Training on SWC techniques for PW site foremen/women: In the reporting quarter, 174 site foremen/women (78% of the planned 222) were trained on the SWC techniques. The training was organized to improve their skill and knowledge on: contour layout, determination of conservation structure spacing, and understanding of quality standards/specifications of various SWC technologies, public work labor management and timely submission of attendance. Of the trainees, 67 (39%) were female and 126 (72%) were youth. The reason for the under accomplishment was the resource persons in some Woredas were called for higher level training which was given at zonal level. The training in those Woredas will be given early next quarter.

Figure 5. PW site foremen/women training, Ziquala Woreda Nursery forewomen/men training on nursery management: Twenty nursery foremen/women (43% of the planned 47) were trained on nursery management. Out of the trainees only one was female and 7 (35 %) were youth. The topics covered in the training include: seed collection techniques, seed drying, seed bed preparation, proportional mixing of soil, sand and compost to healthy germination and growth of seedlings, seed sowing techniques, watering, shading, labor management, and transplanting of seedlings. The under accomplishment

FH Ethiopia TRAIN Project FY’19 First Quarter Report, Resubmitted February 20, 2019 6 was due to the fact that the resource persons responsible to deliver the training in some Woredas were moved to the zonal town for a high level training organized by government. Forest/Fodder seed purchase and collection: A total of 560 kg (54% of the planned 1030 Kg) forest and fodder seeds were purchased in the reporting quarter. The seeds were purchased from certified seed suppliers based in Bahir Dar, the main town of . The seeds will be distributed to the central nurseries. A significant amount of seed considered for purchase failed to pass the germination test that led to the lower achievement compared to plan. The test is a standard procedure pursued to check seed quality before purchase. The purchase process is on progress and the seeds with the required germination percentage will be purchased in early second quarter.

Polythene tube purchase for centrally managed nurseries: A total of 2,050 Kg. polythene tube (69 % of the planned 2,950) was purchased. The budget is allocated from Cap Admin budget which is administered by Woreda Food Security Task Force (WFSTF). The task force in some Woredas allocated lower budget giving high priority to other activities. The Woredas confirmed to fulfil the shortage from other sources. Watershed committee training on sustainable watershed management: A total of 57 watershed committee members (18% of the planned 310) were trained on sustainable watershed management. All committee members were youth. The objective of the training is to build the capacity of the committee members to sustainably manage the watersheds. The reason for the under accomplishment is similar with the reason mentioned under nursery foremen/women training section above. Social Infrastructure Construction: Various social infrastructures such as: 3 blocks of school class rooms, 1 health post, 7 veterinary posts, 7 before and after birth resting rooms and 2 Farmers Training Centers (FTCs) were planned to be constructed in the third year of the TRAIN. In the reporting quarter: construction sites were identified, engineering design and drawings were collected from government relevant offices, specifications and Bill of Quantity (BoQ) received from the respective Woreda government offices. The designs and specifications were reviewed/verified by FH infrastructure officers based at projects with close supervision and support of FH Public Work and Infrastructure adviser based at Bahir Dar. Additionally, construction material purchase is under process. Construction will be started in the upcoming quarter. PURPOSE 2: INCREASED AVAILABILITY OF SAFE, DIVERSE, NUTRITIOUS AND HIGH-VALUE FOODS Under this purpose, FH aims to increase availability of food at the household level through increasing production and food transfer using FFP support. The achievements in the quarter are briefly discussed below.

IO 2.1.1: Increased adoption of appropriate crop technologies

Introduce vermicomposting to produce Organic fertilizer: FH promotes vermin compost as a technology to increase organic production. The technology is promoted in collaboration with Amhara Regional Agriculture Research Institute (ARARI). Accordingly, in this

FH Ethiopia TRAIN Project FY’19 First Quarter Report, Resubmitted February 20, 2019 7 reporting quarter vermin compost preparation was demonstrated in the compounds of 8 FTCs. A total of 326 (119 male and 207 female) Livelihood Group (LG) members attended the demonstrations. Only 3 tones (8% of the planned 40) vermin compost was produced in the reporting quarter. Shortage and delay of vermin supply from ARARI are the reasons for the underachievement.

IO 2.1.2: Increased sustainable access to inputs for crop production

Train lead farmers of Livelihood Groups (LGs): In FY’18 FH-TRAIN conducted value chain study on selected sub-sectors based on the potential of each TRAIN Woreda. Potato, haricot bean, sheep and honey were studied for the four TRAIN projects of SG zone, while honey, goat and fish were studied for the three TRAIN projects of the Wag-Himra Zone. TRAIN is organizing Livelihood Groups (LGs) on the selected sub-sectors tailored to the potential and interest of each individual beneficiary. Each LG on the average has 15-30 members with volunteer lead farmer who is elected by the group members. In the reporting quarter, 15 (100% of the plan) elected lead farmers were trained on improved agricultural techniques. Of the trainees, four (27%) were female. It is expected that the lead farmers will cascade the training to their fellow group members. FH through its livelihood animators will closely follow up and support the cascading of the training.

SP 2.3: Increased Production of Nutritious Food

IO 2.3.1: Increased use of alternative water sources for crop and livestock production

IO 2.3.1: Increased use of alternative water sources for crop and livestock production: Conduct irrigation feasibility study and Preparatory activities: In the reporting quarter, feasibility studies were done for eight irrigation sites (100% of the plan). The sites are found to be feasible to start construction work in the upcoming quarter. As it was stated in the social infrastructure section above the preparatory work for irrigation schemes is also on progress. In general the planned schemes are: • Six canal extension schemes (one of the schemes is new). • two river diversions (newly planned); • Two small masonry dams’ construction (a continuation from last year). IO2.4.1: Increased access to cash and food availability at HH level

Warehouse Maintenance: FH Ethiopia manages two Primary Distribution Points (PDPs) and 22 Final Distribution Points (FDPs). These distribution points are regularly monitored to ensure the required standards are met. As needed, measures are taken to maintain the warehouses. In the reporting period, 11 warehouses (79% of the planned 14) were maintained before food aid commodities were prepositioned. In addition, warehouses were rented at Kombolcha PDP to provide adequate space for the upcoming shipments. The underachievement is due to the fact that only 11 warehouses required maintenance.

FH Ethiopia TRAIN Project FY’19 First Quarter Report, Resubmitted February 20, 2019 8 Food Commodities Prepositioning: In the reporting quarter, shipping documents (Air waybill, bill of lading, commercial invoice, certificate of origin, insurance certificate, packing list) were received and customs clearing was administered. Port representative, SIYAN Transit Express, was selected to represent FH at Djibouti port to guarantee smooth and timely flow of information. Global inspection survey agency (GISA), an independent survey company, is also selected to conduct on-board vessel hatch survey and immediately contact Awardee in the event of major damage of cargo. In the fiscal year, a total of 14,990 MT of commodity (13,250 MT. wheat and 1340 MT YSP and 400 MT vegetable oil) will be expected to arrive at Djibouti port.

Provision of warehouse equipment materials and supplies at final distribution sites and primary warehouses: The warehouses at FDPs were provided with 7 (70% of the planned 10) sets while the PDPs with 6 sets (60% of the planned 10) of basic warehouse equipment such as fire extinguishers, ladders, weighing scales, first aid kits, office furniture, and materials. In the reporting period, all fire extinguishers were maintained and distributed to all FDPs and PDPs. The underachievement is attributed to the fact that the available equipment in the remaining warehouses were found to be sufficient.

PSNP-PW Extra Round Commodities allocation and distribution: USAID approved extra round commodities distribution to PSNP PW beneficiaries in hot spot 1 TRAIN Woredas. The arrangement was done through Joint Emergency Operation Plan (JEOP) food allocation. A total of 1,258.54 MT (1,113.75 MT of wheat, 111.75 MT of Split yellow peas and 33.41 MT of veg. oil) commodities was allocated, which will be distributed to beneficiaries in the near future. Commodities dispatched from Kombolcha to respective FDPs so far, by beneficiary and Woreda is presented in Table 1

Table 1. Extended round commodity allocation by Woreda and beneficiary

Woreda Beneficiary Wheat YSP (MT) Oil Total (MT) (MT) (MT) Sedi-Muja 22950 344.25 34.43 10.33 389.00 Sahila 11163 167.45 16.74 5.02 189.21 Ziquala 18844 282.66 28.27 8.48 319.41 Abergelie 21293 319.40 31.94 9.58 360.92 Total 74250 1113.75 111.38 33.41 1258.54

Pest Management in the Warehouses: Signs of pest infestation were observed in warehouses in Simada and Tach Gayint Woredas. In order to protect the commodity from pest attack all FDPs in the two Woredas were sprayed with Diazinon in the reporting quarter. It is effective in killing the pests like weevil and is among the list of chemicals permitted to be used for warehouse purpose. During spray all necessary safety materials such as medicines, tarpaulins and sand snakes were used. The detail will be reported together with the upcoming Environmental Status Report (ESR).

FH Ethiopia TRAIN Project FY’19 First Quarter Report, Resubmitted February 20, 2019 9 R-PASS training: Following the revision of PASS (Payroll and Attendance Sheet System) software, its features have been changed and it was re-named as R-PASS to denote Rural PASS. Training was given for five days to 20 participants (133% of the planned15). The trainees were from government (11) and FH staff (9) drawn from the seven TRAIN projects. The Regional DPFSPCO is correcting some errors of the software and installed on both FH and Woreda Finance Offices computers. According to Regional DPFSPCO, software installation will be completed at the end of January. The training improved the employee's skill to be able to produce payment document (payroll) using the newly revised R-Pass system. The over achievement is attributed training of four additional staff in Tach Gayint Woreda to mitigate the gap due to high turnover of staff.

E-payment status: E-payment pilot continued in and Tach Gayint Woredas in collaboration with Amhara Credit and Saving Institution (ACSI) and Disaster Preparedness and Food Security Program Coordination Office (DPFSPCO). During this quarter, FH worked in collaboration with DPFSPCO to transfer cash to Permanent Direct Support (PDS) beneficiaries through e-payment. Previously, FH was responsible for the regular January to March cash transfers only. However, upon receiving request from the regional DPFSPCO, FH conducted October to December 2018 PDS cash transfer through mobile technology.

FH has entered agreement with ACSI to pay the transfer fee while the actual transfer to beneficiaries is covered by the regional government. Due to late request of switching to e- payment, FH requested ACSI to continue transferring to clients while the agreement is on progress. The new agreement covering the period from July 2018 to September 2019 expected to correct the previous gaps of report quality, engage agents, support clients to withdraw cash using their own mobile phones, and stakeholders’ commitment. Currently, Lay Gayint project has completed October and November transfers and is preparing for December transfer whereas Tach Gayint did not make any transfers during this quarter due to delay in payroll preparation by Woreda Finance Office. FH will pay transfer fee of US$ 6,557.00 to ACSI when October to December transfers in both Woredas are completed and agreement will be approved by FH.

FH conducted a one-day annual e-payment review meeting on November 17, 2018. A total of 34 people drawn from government, FH project staff and USAID local mission participated on the workshop. A research report on the annual e-payment effectiveness and customer satisfaction was presented. The audience discussed on the lessons learned and future mitigation measures for better quality of e-payment project execution in 2019. FH, upon request, presented the research report on the regional JRIS meeting and the monthly Cash Working Group meeting. Full research document was shared to relevant stakeholders and interested individuals including USAID local mission.

E-payment to PDS and PW clients will continue in Lay Gayint and Tach Gayint Woredas for the January to March 2019 allocation. The actual transfers will be conducted from February to April 2019 as per the PSNP-IV Program Implementation Manual (PIM). Preparatory works such as attendance collection and agreement with ACSI are on progress. FH has allocated US$ 2,246,010 to transfer to PW and PDS clients.

FH Ethiopia TRAIN Project FY’19 First Quarter Report, Resubmitted February 20, 2019 10 PURPOSE 3: INCREASED EQUITABLE INCOME FOR MEN, WOMEN AND YOUTH Under this purpose FH aims to increase opportunities for market-based income generation by supporting men, women and youth producers to effectively link to markets to sale their products. Gender and youth as a standalone sector is also envisaged to contribute for the achievement of this purpose.

SP 3.1: Increased Sale of Agricultural Products for Women, Men and Youth

IO 3.1.1 Increased access to market for women, men & youth for on-farm production Road maintenance / Construction: Five kms of new access road was constructed and 108.3 km of existing road maintained across the seven TRAIN Woredas. In total, 113.3 km (114% of the planned 99km) of road was constructed and rehabilitated. The constructions were carried out using PSNP PW labor. These roads connect 41 Kebeles and will continue to give improved services to 55,994 beneficiaries, of which 26,020 (47%) were women and 29759 (53%) were youth. The detail is presented by Woreda in Table 2.

Table 2.Feeder roads maintained/constructed by Woreda

Woreda Participants Youth Maintained/construc Kebele’s ted (Km.) connected (No) Male Female Total Male Femal Total e Sede Muja 1420 1021 2441 440 327 767 17 (12 maintained and 10 5 constructed) Lay Gayint 1750 1820 3570 561 539 1100 26 3 Simada 575 451 1026 110 105 215 9.8 7 Tach gayint 15345 14716 30061 10021 9737 19758 10 8 Aberglie 1213 623 1836 242 124 366 5 3 Sahila 3650 2150 5800 1022 645 1667 2 5 Ziquala 5806 5239 11045 3042 2803 5845 43.5 5 Total 29,759 26,020 55,779 15,438 14,280 29,718 113.3 41

IO 3.1.2 Improved use of market information by women and men

Setup market information system for value chain crops: Market price information was shared to 1013 target beneficiaries (92% of the planned 1100) on weekly basis. Of the beneficiaries 284 (28%) were female. The price information was posted on the bill boards located in the FTCs (fig 6). The objective is to provide information to farmers on the actual current price of major products so that they could make informed decisions on production and pricing. This in turn helps them to sale their products with relatively better profit margin. Eventually the income of the beneficiaries will be increased that contributes for the household graduation.

FH Ethiopia TRAIN Project FY’19 First Quarter Report, Resubmitted February 20, 2019 11

Figure 6. Market price information on billboard in FTC compound, Kebele 03,Tach Gayint SP 3.2: Men, women, Youth Engaged in Profitable off- Farm Activities

IO 3.2.1: Increased access to credit for women, men and youth

Formation/strengthening of Self Help Group (SHG): A total of 32 SHGs (107% of the planned 30) were formed in the reporting period. The SHGs consists of 792 (98% are female) members. The members have regular meeting once per month to save, determine who takes the loan, collect repayment and discuss on how to strengthen their group. In addition, the SHGs exchanged information on various social issues.

Figure 7. SHG members under discussion and, Tach Gayint Support individual SHG members on business plan development: SHGs are organized and encouraged to start small saving, voluntarily. They also provide small loans to their members when their saving reached certain amount upon the members’ decision. FH animators at grass root level supports the members in business plan development for efficient utilization of the loan. To this end, 132 SHG members (88% of the planned 150) were supported in business plan development. The amount saved by most SHGs was not mature enough for loan disbursement and that led to lower number of SHG members supported in BP preparation than planned.

IO 3.2.2: Equitable Gender norm, decision making and resource control Accepted & practiced Gender mainstreaming training at regional level: Gender mainstreaming training was given to FH/E Head Office (HO) and project staff. The objective was to address the competency gap identified through the gender and youth study conducted by a consulting firm. To this end,

FH Ethiopia TRAIN Project FY’19 First Quarter Report, Resubmitted February 20, 2019 12 a total of 76 staff (90% of the planned 84) attended the training. Out of the total attendees, 7 (9% were female). The resource persons were FH Gender & Youth Advisors based at Head Quarter (HQ) and Ethiopia Office (HO) levels. The training was organized in two sessions - the first was a three days training given to all staff and the second session was additional two days training given to gender and youth officers drawn from each project. Promote positive gender norms through Gender Outreach Groups (GoG): A total of 425 GoG sessions (48% of the planned 883) were conducted in four of the seven TRAIN Woredas. The discussion session was attended by 6,118 (3229 female) GoG members, of which 1099 attendees (18%) were youth. The underachievement is due to the competing priorities of concerned government sector offices who played key role in coordinating the preparatory work such as selection of expansion Kebeles, identification of community volunteer facilitators and formation of GoGs. Facilitation skill training for community facilitators: A total of 141 (47% of the planned 298) volunteer community facilitators were trained for three days. The topics covered in the training were: key principles of adult learning, facilitation skill and techniques of organizing community dialogue sessions. The low achievement is due to the resignation of gender officer at Simada and absence of Lay Gayint officer due to maternity leave. Community facilitators review meeting: Four Community facilitators’ review meetings (57% of the planned 7) were conducted. A total of 176 facilitators participated in the review meetings. Of the total participants, 82 (42 female) were youth. The composition of the participants include community volunteer facilitators, representatives from WoWCA, Kebele chairpersons, and FH Gender & Youth Animators. The discussion topics were: 1) progress towards positive gender norm development, 2) identify challenges faced while conducting community dialogue sessions, 3) root causes of the challenges faced; 4) possible actions to improve the identified challenges; and 5) best practices drawn from the community dialogue sessions.

Figure 8. Community Facilitators Review Meeting, Sahila. Conduct mobile cinema screenings and public demonstrations: in this reporting quarter, five mobile cinema screening events (45% of the planned 11) were organized. A total of 1023 (448 female) individuals (GOG members, PSNP beneficiaries, students and other community members) attended the events. The under achievement is attributed to the absence of gender and youth officers in three Woredas due to resignation and maternity leave.

FH Ethiopia TRAIN Project FY’19 First Quarter Report, Resubmitted February 20, 2019 13 Broadcast pre-recorded gender messages: This activity is aimed to convey selected gender audio messages. The objective is to address large number of people at a time. In the reporting quarter eight events (40% of the planned 20) were conducted in some of the TRAIN Woredas. A total of 5,602 (3279 female) individuals participated. Out of the total attendees, 3,080 (1517 Female) were youth. The attendees include: community facilitators, PSNP PW beneficiaries, local leaders, school gender club members and students. Similar reasons given for the above activity contributed to the underachievement. PURPOSE 4: IMPROVED NUTRITION FOR CHILDREN UNDER FIVE (CU5), PREGNANT AND LACTATING WOMEN (PLW) and WOMENI IN REPRODUCTIVE AGE (WRA), INCLUDING ADOLESCENT GIRLS

SP 4.1: Increased Equitable and Diverse Intake of Nutritious Foods

IO 4.1.1: Increased adoption of maternal and child health and nutrition (MCHN) practices

Conduct nutrition days for dietary diversification for WRAs: In the reporting quarter, 24 nutrition day celebration events (109% of the planned 22) were conducted. The events were carried out at Kebele level and involved Care Group (CG) members, Mother in Laws (MiL), male partners, adolescent boys and girls. The objective of the event was to bring behavioral change in maternal and young child feeding practices. In these events clean cooking techniques and preparation of nutrient dense porridge were demonstrated. Nutrient dense porridge is a porridge prepared from a mix of available cereals and grains and enriched with iron and vitamin A rich vegetables. A total of 3,822 community members attended the events. The attendants include; 1,838 PLW, 536 male partners of PLW, 320 MiLs, 1,017 adolescent girls and 111 adolescent boys.

Link soul fathers with each pregnant woman for follow -up: A total of 1,091 PLW (100% of the plan) were linked with trained soul fathers for regular follow up and discussion on Ante Natal Care (ANC), Post Natal Care (PNC) and MCHN. Soul fathers are local priests of the Ethiopian Coptic Christians who are responsible to visit their soul children for spiritual nourishment. The priests are respected by their soul children. FHE identified list of PLW who are also CG members. Priests were approached and told to counsel their soul children while visiting their homes after church sermons. Soul fathers conveyed nutrition messages during their home visits and to the larger congregation in churches and other public gatherings. As a result, changes were observed in ANC and PNC practices that was observed during monitoring visits to households and health posts by health animators. That said, it should be noted that the result observed during the reporting period is a cumulative effect of investments on soul fathers since last year. TRAIN wants to see that PLW are exempted to consume animal source foods even during fasting periods. However, this has proven challenging as the priests (though seem convinced of the benefits) don’t yet encourage PLW to consume these foods during fasting.

FH Ethiopia TRAIN Project FY’19 First Quarter Report, Resubmitted February 20, 2019 14 Recently, FHE discussed with Regional level Sekota Declaration1 Unit about a better mechanism to engage soul fathers in the effort to exempt PLWs from fasting. Based on the lesson drawn from the discussion, FHE has decided to involve regional and zonal level church leaders to come up with definite plan of action for priests supporting the program at grassroots level.

Organize Mother-in-Laws in to group: In the reporting quarter, 601 MiLs (92% of the planned 655) were organized in to a group of 20-30 members. The MiLs received orientation on complementary feeding, child feeding and what their role should be. After getting the orientation the MiLs continually support the PLW by influencing them towards: 1) immediate breast feeding, 2) timely initiation of complementary feeding, 3) avoiding pre-lacteal feeding, and 5) the importance of one and two additional meals for pregnant and lactating women, respectively.

IO 4.1.3: Improved Quality of MCHN Services Training on Maternal and Child Health and Nutrition (MCHN): Health Extension Workers (HEWs) and Health and Nutrition Animators (HNAs) were trained on MCHN. The training was conducted as a precursor for the upcoming modular training on MCHN to CG members. A total of 249 participants (94% of the plan) comprised of 196 HEWs and 53 HNAs attended the training. The training was on community-based management of maternal, newborn and child health and nutrition problems. All of the HEWs and HNAs were female.

SP 4.2 Improved Healthy Timing and Spacing of Pregnancies

IO 4.2.1 Increased use of family planning

Conduct monthly discussion sessions with school and out of school youth on selected RH topics: Six discussion sessions (100% of the plan) were carried out on weekly basis. A total of 15,813 (50% female) adolescents were attending the weekly discussions at schools. The discussion was done by using the booklet containing reproductive health and adolescent nutrition. Discussion topics include: 1) building the self-esteem of youth, 2) working together safely, 3) Supporting each other during puberty, 4) sexuality and sexual life skills, 5) adolescent sexual and reproductive rights, 6) learning to cope with feelings while growing up and 7) developing our self-esteem.

Sub-Purpose 4.3: Reduced WASH related illness

IO 4.3.1: Increased adoption of WASH practices

Conduct community conversation on EHA: This activity was not planned in the current reporting period. It was planned for the second fiscal year (FY’18) but conducted in this quarter. Due to the effect of late commencement of

1 Sekota Declaration is government of Ethiopia’s declaration to end childhood under-nutrition by 2030.

FH Ethiopia TRAIN Project FY’19 First Quarter Report, Resubmitted February 20, 2019 15 implementation in year 1 (FY’17), CG sessions were pushed to this year. Accordingly, the trained Women Health Development Armies (WHDAs) in fourth quarter of FY’18 were cascading the modular training to PLW in this reporting quarter. As a result, 7,900 PLW attended EHA module comprised of three lessons.

Box1. Mother-to-mother groups discussion

During the mother-to-mother (CG) group discussion session the WHDAs have employed all facilitation techniques to address the audience through crucial issues like the importance of: hand washing at critical times , latrine construction and utilization, construction of hand washing station, house hold water treatment and proper handling.

Figure 9. Mother-to-mother session on EHA, Tach Gayint

Quarterly review meeting with HEWs/Animators/WHDAs: Seven quarterly review meetings (one per Woreda and 100% of the plan) were carried out across the TRAIN Woredas. Various stakeholders (Woreda Office of Health, HEWs, WHDAs and FH field staff) were represented in the review meetings. Major areas reviewed were: achievements so far, challenges encountered and put remedial action for the challenges for future improvement. A total of 204 (all female) participants (92% of the planned 222) attended the event.

SP 4.3: Reduced WASH-Related Illness IO 4.3.2: Increased sustainable access to WASH infrastructure Sustainable HH and community water and sanitation structures built/rehabilitated: In this fiscal year it was planned to construct 23 drinking water schemes (hand dug well and spring development). In the reporting quarter, sites were identified, standard design documents collected, bill of quantities and specifications prepared and purchase process for construction materials started. Construction will commence in the second quarter.

4. INTEGRATION OF CROSS CUTTING ISSUES AND USAID FORWARD PRIORITIES AND PROGRESS

4.1 Gender Equality and Female Empowerment

In the reporting quarter, changes were seen in terms of integrating interventions with gender equality and female empowerment in some projects. • Proportion of forewomen to foremen raised to 53% in Ziquala, which was negligible in the previous implementation years;

FH Ethiopia TRAIN Project FY’19 First Quarter Report, Resubmitted February 20, 2019 16 • The proportion of women beneficiaries addressed by livelihood interventions reached beyond 60% in Lay Gayint. This is well beyond the TRAIN target of 32%, indicated in the design document. • Gender Integration Plan (GIP) for the DFSA/TRAIN project was prepared by FH’s Gender specialists. This integration plan was discussed with the program staff and will be made practical at all levels. The objective of the GIP is to ensure intentional integration of gender consideration across DFSA sectors to contribute for the achievement of the project goal in a gender sensitive manner.

4.2 Policy and Government Support

In the quarter, FH has conducted stakeholders’ joint review meeting on e-payment and overall program implementation progress and challenges focusing on the second year of the program. USAID local mission and relevant stakeholders from concerned Regional Government Bureaus, Zonal Departments and Woreda offices were represented in both review meetings. Among others, the annual review meeting gave attention to critically look into the standing government direction of 80% cap/admin allocation on water collection over the past years. The regional government policy direction used to disproportionately favor investments on irrigation such as the construction of small scale masonry dams, community ponds, diversion weir and canals by diverting Cap/admin budget from other sectors such as WASH, health and education thereby impacting the overall program objectives. FH lobbied with the regional authorities for policy revision and presented major challenges of this direction in a regional workshop. Common understanding was created among the Regional government stakeholders about the negative consequences of allocating the majority of the budget to one activity/sector, neglecting the others. They have now become flexible about the budget allocation and agreed to follow needs on the ground as opposed to the blanket allocation of 80% of the Cap/admin budget to water harvesting structures. 4.3 Local Capacity Development

In this reporting quarter various activities were implemented that inform engagement and capacity of local actors in implementing DFSA. Technical trainings were provided for local stakeholders to capacitate them on PSNP and DFSA interventions. Furthermore, their full engagement in the program has also enabled them to acquire practical knowledge and experiences on project management, resource utilization and other sector-specific themes. Materials including computers and other electronics are in the process of purchase to equip agriculture office in Sedi Muja Woreda.

Different trainings have been delivered to the community and government structure in many areas that include livelihood, gender, soil and water conservation, health and nutrition and hygiene and sanitation. It is believed that, due to different structure work on the watersheds, natural capital is improving. Moreover, the project has contributed to local capacity development through creating job opportunity. Currently, local people are getting employment through labor or supplying local material for the camp and office construction.

FH Ethiopia TRAIN Project FY’19 First Quarter Report, Resubmitted February 20, 2019 17 Material support and trainings on various technical aspects is empowering the local stakeholders progressively and their full participation in the program. TRAIN builds capacity of major local actors beside government offices through joint implementation, coaching and training. For instance, project is working with RuSaCCOs and TVETs among others. FH has been contributing to build their capacities in organizing community level groups and institutions. GOGs can contribute to foster the existing social bond towards more cohesive communities that can strive to realize local development and gender equality.

4.4. Social Accountability (SA) A total of 42 Kebeles were targeted for SA implementation in DFSA-TRAIN Woredas. The SA component has been implemented by Amhara Development Association (ADA). Major activities accomplished during the quarter are discussed here below.

Awareness creation for service users and providers on SA and PSNP standards: Awareness creation about social accountability has been done in public work sites and during various public gatherings (churches, Kebele meetings and other social gatherings). Social accountability concepts, benefits & tools, PSNP service standards and positive gender norms for service providers and users were some of the topics discussed. The awareness raising was performed by Woreda Social Accountability Committees (SACs), ADA Woreda Project Coordinators, FGD facilitators and Kebele SACs. As a result of this, a total of 4,552 (1855, female) beneficiaries were addressed in the reporting quarter. The targets started claiming better services from service providers (Kebele leaders in this case) and asking questions about service gaps and getting solutions for the existing problems.

Compile Community Score Card implementation result from the target Kebeles: Community Score Card (CSC) results on PSNP service assessment was collected, collated and analyzed. The community satisfaction level assessment was conducted in newly targeted Kebeles of Tach Gayint as a sample and the results were documented and shared. Accordingly, the satisfaction level with PSNP services in the newly added Kebeles of Tach Gayint Woreda is 54%, which was considered as low. Based on this result, interface meetings will be conducted at Kebele and Woreda level to discuss the root causes of the dissatisfaction and prepare action plan to take actions and improve the services.

Conducted Kebele interface meeting: Following the assessment, Kebele level interface meetings were organized by ADA in each SA implementing Kebele. The objective is to facilitate dialogue between service users and service providers on service related issues and provide local solutions. The interface meeting was conducted in 42 Kebeles involving all stakeholders. The participants include service users, service providers and observers in each Kebele. ADA effectively facilitated the Kebele interface meetings. In the interface meeting CSC assessment result were presented by facilitators. The participants then discussed and identified problems at Kebele and Woreda levels and solutions were suggested for prioritized issues that were included in joint action plan (JAP). A total of 2799(1195, females) individuals participated in the Kebele level interface meetings.

FH Ethiopia TRAIN Project FY’19 First Quarter Report, Resubmitted February 20, 2019 18 Conducted Woreda interface meeting: After Kebele level interface meetings were completed, Woreda level interface meeting were conducted in each Woreda. The participants of the Woreda interface meeting include: Kebele level service users and service providers, Woreda level service providers particularly from Woreda Office of Agriculture and Natural Resource (WoANR), other relevant sector offices, members of Woreda council, representative from Woreda Administration Office and representative Zonal officials. The meeting brought those stakeholders together and created common understanding on the quality, efficiency, effectiveness and accessibility of the PSNP services, based on consolidated scoring of Focus Group discussions. The Interface meetings adjourned by developing Woreda level JAP. A total of 450 (118 females) individuals participated in the Woreda interface meeting.

Joint Action Plan (JAP) Implementation: Joint Action Plan has been implemented as agreed between project clients, service providers and Woreda officials on the Kebele and Woreda level interface meetings. JAP was prepared during Woreda Interface meetings to set out actions that require further improvements on service delivery eventually improve PSNP performance.

4.5. Knowledge Management

As part of enhancing knowledge management functions within DFSA different activities were carried out during the reporting quarter.

• Knowledge exchange internally and externally: As part of knowledge exchange, information was compiled and shared with FH staff and PSNP partners for learning. These include: learning matrix, Value Chain Analysis and Gender and Youth Analysis documents, compiled stories, learning brief on lessons, challenges and way forward and FH DFSA CLA progress which was presented on USAID learning forum. Furthermore, staff were briefed on the theme “target setting and data utilization’ that enabled them to refresh and gain knowledge that will help contribute for program quality. • Annual review meeting: annual review meeting of FH DFSA was conducted from November 19-20, 2018 in Bahir Dar town. Various presentations were conducted and discussions were held on the workshop. Major presentations were on: FY’18 DFSA performance by projects, FY’19 plan, social accountability efforts by ADA (Amhara Development Association) and key findings of gender and youth & value chain study presented. A total of 78 (11 females) drawn from FH/E head office, Bahir Dar and project offices, government line bureaus, departments & offices, representatives from ADA and USAID were present. • DFSA quarterly newsletter: quarterly newsletter was compiled on major achievements of the project and events that are noteworthy and informative. This is a form of sharing knowledge about DFSA progress that will be shared to stakeholders. • Experience sharing and learning with partners: FH/E in the reporting quarter continued to make efforts to strengthen collaboration with relevant partners. FH initiated to resume the CLA process started between FH and REST. Draft updated plan prepared and shared to REST for comment. The CLA will resume next quarter after finalizing the plan. In addition, FH, in this quarter strengthened the collaboration with GtN in Lay Gayint and Tach Gayint where USAID investments overlapped. Joint meeting between GtN and FH

FH Ethiopia TRAIN Project FY’19 First Quarter Report, Resubmitted February 20, 2019 19 undertaken at Bahir Dar to update the joint action plan and strengthening the collaboration. FH also approached Save the Children’s POTENTIAL program. Meeting was held with the Chief of Party (CoP) to collaborate on youth programing. The second meeting is tentatively planned for first week of February.

5. STAKEHOLDERS PARTICIPATION AND INVOLVEMENT

FH collaborates with a wide range of stakeholders in the implementation of DFSA. In the quarter, FH had organized a Regional level joint annual review meeting bringing all stakeholders together. At the Woreda level, stakeholders paid joint monitoring visits to project activities and were much engaged on reviewing past performances with a forward looking attitude on how to enhance joint engagements to attain the project objectives. Woredas have also participated in purchase of different construction materials and taking necessary actions for quick start of infrastructure projects. Kebele administrations played key roles in selecting watershed and construction sites, in providing list of PSNP clients and in mobilizing the communities for local materials contribution in addition to coordinating some PW activities. Health Extension Workers (HEWs) and Women Health Development Armies (WHDAs) were the key facilitators in the delivery of locally contextualized BCC messages on ENA, EHA and MCHN. Woreda Women and Children Affairs Office was the major institution involved in gender and youth related activities from planning phase to implementation, monitoring and evaluation. Experts from the same office have been involved in Kebele selection, community facilitators’ recruitment and strengthening school gender clubs. Facilitation of Gender Outreach Groups (GoG) is primarily managed by volunteers and Woreda gender experts. In a nutshell, stakeholders’ participation went very well in the quarter thereby creating an enabling environment for smooth program implementation.

Recognitions and certificate: In the quarter, all the four South Gondar projects (Tach- Gayint, Lay-Gayint Simada and Sede-Muja) received Zonal and Woreda government recognition certificates for the various outstanding achievements during the second year of the project.

6. MANAGEMENT AND ADMINISTARATION ISSUES

High staff turnover (especially in Wag Himira project areas) was a major problem in many of the projects that challenged HR department to recruit the right person and fill the vacant position timely. Project key positions such as Project Manager and Admin and Finance were among the vacant positions challenging smooth project operations. Project base camp construction has been progressing well in Sedi Muja. Tach Gayint and Lay Gayint projects were also doing expansion to the existing residence rooms to accommodate increasing number of staff. The constructions will be completed and furnished in next quarter and start to provide service to staff.

FH Ethiopia TRAIN Project FY’19 First Quarter Report, Resubmitted February 20, 2019 20 7. LESSONS LEARNED

• FH hosted a DFSA project visit by USAID-FFP AoR and USAID-Ethiopia local mission ALT office leadership and technical experts in November 2018. The visit was made to the Wag-Himra Woredas of Abergelie, Sahila and Ziquala. The visit was an opportunity for FH to learn from the visiting team. Following the visit FH has started to do internal assessments on the implementation and operational aspects for internal learning purpose.

• Timeliness of transfers: This has been a serious challenge across DFSA implementation Woredas. The transfer delays were a cumulative effect of various stakeholders involved in the process. It is learned that setting a clear and well broken down tasks showing cut-off dates and responsible persons at different levels is found to be a good tool to trace where the problem lies and to take remedial action in the future. FH is in the process of developing these detailed tasks broken to different levels, get them endorsed at each Woreda level to be used for regular monitoring purpose.

• DFSA supported on the preparation of Community Managed Disaster Risk Reduction (CMDRR) plans at each DFSA implementation Woredas. However, it is observed that these plans are not well embraced and incorporated into the annual Woreda Public Work (PW) plans for action calling for further learning and collaboration with the stakeholders to enhance the capacity of the communities.

8. PLANNED ACTIVITIES FOR NEXT QUARTER INCLUDING UPCOMING EVENTS

Major activities planned for the next quarter include:

• Twenty two Kebele DM and DRR plans will be prepared; • Community Leaders Training (on Leadership, Community Transformation, DRR & Project Planning)-refresher (185) • Forest/Fodder seed purchase (400Kg) • Nursery materials/hand tools support for central nurseries (13 set.) • Classroom construction (4 class rooms) • User groups training on sustainable watershed management (56 user groups) • Emergency seed purchase (1625 quintal.) • Improved high Value seed provision (81kg. different kinds of vegetables) • Introduce improved storages (10 storages) • Emergency seed storage facilities construction (3 stores) • Identifying entrepreneurs and organize as Local Input Suppliers (LIS)- (14 individuals) • Train lead farmers of producers (livelihood groups)- (549 lead farmers) • Livelihood transfers for vulnerable community members (Female headed households, youths and other vulnerable)-(1408 vulnerable households) • New warehouse construction at final distribution sites- (2 warehouses)

FH Ethiopia TRAIN Project FY’19 First Quarter Report, Resubmitted February 20, 2019 21 • Food commodity prepositioning and distribution including 5% contingency (7795mt.) • Culvert/Ford construction (3 culverts) • Technical skills training for alternative livelihoods (carpentry, metal work, tailoring, masonry, ICT etc., )- (111 youths) • Promote positive gender norms through Gender Outreach Groups using gender outreach media tools (image boxes and comic book)-(1049 sessions) • Establish and train CLTS committee at Kebele and sub Kebele level –(143 households) • Joint Mid-Term Review Process continued • Joint quarterly monitoring will be done by FH-DFSA train Head Office team

9. HOW IMPLEMENTING PARTNER HAS ADDRESSED HAS ADDRESSED A/COR COMMENTS FROM THE LAST QUARTER REPORT

No issues were raised from the AOR in the previous quarter.

10. FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT

Financial reports will be submitted by FH HQ separately.

11. SUCCESS STORIES

Two Success stories are attached to the email of transmission

FH Ethiopia TRAIN Project FY’19 First Quarter Report, Resubmitted February 20, 2019 22