Evaluating a portfolio of projects based on their sustainable development (SD) ratings

Since 2014, AFD (Agence Française de Développement) has been using the Sustainable Development Analysis and Advice (SDAA) system to assess the expected contribution to Sustainable Development of the projects it finances, prior to their implementation. In 2023, this approach was enriched by an analysis at project completion, offering a more comprehensive perspective on their real impact.

Our mission:

We were commissioned to assess the robustness and relevance of this system, while verifying the consistency between AFD's strategic priorities in terms of sustainable development and their concrete implementation in projects.

Methodology

• Portfolio review: Overall analysis of projects rated on completion, comparing ex-ante and ex-post results.
• Project cluster evaluation: In-depth qualitative studies of 8 projects in Senegal, including a field mission to meet with key stakeholders.
• Formulation of operational conclusions and recommendations: robust and usable evaluative analysis to reinforce or adjust the system.

Activity Workflow

1. Scoping: Structuring the evaluation using a matrix that defines the questions, judgment criteria, and required data.
2. Context analysis and objective assessment: Comparing pre- and post-approval ratings and conducting targeted interviews to gain deeper insight into the results. In-depth analysis of a cluster of 8 projects, including field interviews.
3. Comprehensive evaluative analysis: Cross-referencing quantitative and qualitative data and producing detailed reports.
4. Presentation of findings and recommendations: Collaborative workshops with the AFD to identify lessons learned and formulate areas for improvement.