Report

ODA and Private Sector in Development Research

This study will examine the Official Development Assistance used to support the private sector
investments and interventions in development in Uganda. Currently, there is limited body of evidence on the effects of blending on development results where it has been used. While literature exists on the theoretical use of loans and grants, how it works in practice to deliver development results if at all remains a mystery. As the global aid architecture shifts to blending, assessing how this has been achieving development results on the ground is crucial to inform the policy choices of both the donors and developing countries. RoA Africa would like to focus specifically on the quality and quantity of financing for blended projects and how these elements of development co-operation have
adjusted to the demands of the Busan partnership principles. While aid has remained an important ingredient in funding development programs in Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania, PPPs and other blended projects have remained critical in funding big infrastructure projects, SME and energy projects in these countries. A clear understanding of how blended projects have contributed to development results in the countries they are involved in and what lessons can be learnt from the utilisation of these instruments of financing for nationally defined goals. It is with this in mind that RoA Africa proposes to carry out three country researches in Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda on accounting for the Busan Principles the case for blended projects, lessons and proposals. The studies will be used to develop policy alternatives for ODA private sector financing.