Integrating Capacity Development into Country Programs and Operations: Medium-Term Framework and Action Plan

In 2004, the Asian Development Bank (ADB) adopted capacity development (CD) as a thematic priority. By doing so, ADB acknowledged that strengthened country capacity is not only a means to achieve public sector performance but a goal in its own right. A working group was established to develop an operational medium-term framework and budgeted action plan to enhance the effectiveness, efficiency, and sustainability of ADB-supported capacity development interventions. This report summarizes the findings and recommendations of the working group.

Refinements to the Capacity Development Action Plan

Following two years of implementation, the CD Action Plan was refined to streamline and consolidate outputs and activities and so ensure a more effective mainstreaming of capacity development in ADB's operations. No changes were made at the outcome level, meaning that the two-pronged approach of (i) institutionalizing a capacity development focus in country programs and operations; and (ii) establishing internal support systems for capacity development was retained. The refinements to the CD Action Plan were approved on 8 February 2010.