From August 2005 to February 2007, JOICFP implemented a renovation project for 12 Rural Health Centers (RHCs) in Magwe Division, Myanmar, with support of the Japanese government's Grant Aid for Japanese NGOs.

In August 2007, a mission comprising representatives of Japan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) and Japanese NGOs visited the area.

MOFA wanted to ascertain the effectiveness of the aid given, and is in the process of developing a simple system for NGOs to show accountability and successes.

MOFA is interested in developing a standard pattern for NGOs to self-evaluate, which is expected to lead to an increase in capacity.

Myanmar, including the Magwe project, is seen as a test case by MOFA of NGO skill and ability.

The mission members observed renovated RHCs and interviewed health staff, village authorities, and villagers, including pregnant women. They recognized that renovation had contributed to the increasing number of out-patients at the RHCs, and led to greater efforts by health staff to improve their services.

The mission also acknowledged community people’s initiative in maintaining the renovated RHC buildings by establishing a mechanism for this purpose. The involvement of the stakeholders and community people has greatly contributed to the sustainability of the project.

JOICFP has vast skill and experience in grassroots’ international development projects, and views MOFA’s evaluation as a valuable step in increasing the standing, capacity and effectiveness of Japanese NGOs.

At Sutthwa Rural Health Centre, the Health Assistant
explains to the mission members positive
effects brought by the RHC renovation project