Review of the Embassy’s Development Cooperation Portfolio: Climate Change and Environment “Climate Proofing and Greening of the Portfolio” (Ethiopia)

PREAMBLE

The Royal Norwegian Embassy in Addis Abeba (the Embassy) has requested the assistance from Norad to undertake a review of the Embassy’s portfolio to identify possible ways and means of addressing/integrating appropriate climate change and environmental concerns in existing programs and projects supported by Norway. The Review was commissioned in response to the increased priority given to climate change and environment in Norwegian development cooperation policy. This Review is intended to contribute to ”climate proofing” and a “greening” of the Embassy’s portfolio.

The rationale for Norwegian development cooperation is to support Ethiopia’s own effort to reduce poverty, as well as to contribute to the peaceful resolution of internal conflicts in the country. The Embassy has a clear focus on the following priority areas: Energy, Environment and Natural Resources/Climate, Governance/Budget Support, Gender, and Peace/- Reconciliation.

The Review Team was comprised of Hans Olav Ibrekk and Leif Tore Trædal, both Norad staff. The Team undertook a visit to Addis Abeba 22-26 September 2009. The review is based on desk studies, review of relevant literature and discussions with Embassy officials and counterparts in Ethiopia. The Team appreciates the assistance and hospitality given by the Embassy.

The Embassy submitted comments on the report to Norad 2. November 2009. Based on the received comments and suggestions the Review Team prepared the final report.

The Review Team has provided its independent recommendations and this does not indicate any commitment on behalf of the Embassy to provide additional funding. Based on the review the Embassy is expected to prepare a follow-up plan to be included in the annual business planning cycle.

6. November 2009