In 2024, SICA LLC, a research and consulting firm, successfully conducted the Final Evaluation of the “Capacity Strengthening Project to Combat Illegal Mining Activities” commissioned by The Asia Foundation Mongolia.

The purpose of this consulting assignment was to systematically and objectively assess the project's design, implementation, achievements, and sustainability while preparing a comprehensive project completion report. The evaluation aimed to provide evidence-based findings and recommendations to support future interventions, policy development, and decision-making related to combating illegal mining activities in Mongolia.

Contents

• What is the Final Evaluation of the Capacity Strengthening Project to Combat Illegal Mining Activities?
• Evaluation Objectives
• Key Evaluation Areas
• Research Methodology
• Data Collection Process
• OECD Evaluation Framework
• Key Findings and Significance
• Conclusion

Evaluation Objectives

The primary objective of this consultancy assignment was to prepare the project completion report and conduct a comprehensive assessment of the project's planning, implementation process, outcomes, and overall effectiveness.

In addition, the evaluation aimed to identify lessons learned, assess the project's impact on stakeholders, and provide recommendations for future initiatives addressing illegal mining activities.

Key Evaluation Areas

The final evaluation focused on the following areas:

• Assessing the relevance and quality of project planning and design
• Evaluating the effectiveness of project implementation
• Measuring the results and achievements of project activities
• Assessing stakeholder engagement and collaboration
• Evaluating the sustainability of project outcomes
• Identifying lessons learned and best practices
• Providing recommendations for future programs and interventions
• Generating evidence-based insights to support policy and decision-making in the mining sector

Research Methodology

The evaluation was conducted using a qualitative research approach and relied on both primary and secondary data sources.

Document Review

The research team reviewed and analyzed:

• Project documents and reports
• Implementation records
• Monitoring and evaluation materials
• Relevant policies and supporting documentation

This review provided a comprehensive understanding of the project's objectives, activities, and achievements.

In-Depth Interviews

Individual interviews were conducted with key stakeholders involved in the project to gather perspectives on:

• Project effectiveness
• Implementation challenges
• Achievements and outcomes
• Areas for improvement

Focus Group Discussions

Group discussions with project stakeholders were organized to obtain broader insights into project impacts, challenges, and future opportunities for strengthening anti-illegal mining efforts.

OECD Evaluation Framework

The overall evaluation methodology was based on the internationally recognized OECD evaluation criteria.

The project was assessed against the following dimensions:

• Relevance
• Effectiveness
• Efficiency
• Impact
• Sustainability

Applying these criteria enabled a structured and comprehensive assessment of the project's performance and long-term value.

Data Collection Process

Data for the evaluation were collected from both primary and secondary sources.

Primary Data

• Individual stakeholder interviews
• Focus group discussions
• Stakeholder feedback and assessments

Secondary Data

• Project reports
• Official documentation
• Program records and materials
• Relevant studies and background information

The use of multiple data sources enhanced the reliability and validity of the evaluation findings.

Key Findings and Significance

The final evaluation consolidated the project's achievements, lessons learned, and areas requiring further attention. It generated evidence-based information that can be used to strengthen future initiatives aimed at addressing illegal mining in Mongolia.

The evaluation findings provide valuable guidance for:

• Improving policies and interventions related to illegal mining
• Enhancing transparency within the mining sector
• Promoting responsible and sustainable mining practices
• Strengthening cooperation among government agencies, local communities, and private-sector stakeholders
• Informing the design and implementation of future development projects

Furthermore, the evaluation serves as an important reference document for future efforts to reduce illegal mining activities and promote accountability within the sector.

Conclusion

The Final Evaluation of the “Capacity Strengthening Project to Combat Illegal Mining Activities” provided a comprehensive and objective assessment of the project's implementation, outcomes, and impact using internationally recognized evaluation methodologies. The findings offer valuable evidence and recommendations for strengthening future interventions aimed at reducing illegal mining, enhancing transparency, and improving accountability in Mongolia's mining sector. As such, the evaluation serves as an important foundation for future policy development and project planning in this area.