December 26, 2009 marks five years since the earthquake and tsunami that caused unprecedented devastation and loss of life across Aceh and Nias.
The overall goal of the Multi Donor Fund (MDF) is to contribute efficiently and effectively to the reconstruction of a “better” Aceh and Nias following the earthquakes and tsunami.
Five years after the tsunami and earthquake, the overall recovery and reconstruction of Aceh and Nias can claim remarkable achievements.
MDF Operations in the Changing Reconstruction Context
BRR’s achievements were celebrated as their mandate came to an end in April 2009.
With BAPPENAS at the helm, the MDF has provided support to new partners, including the governments of Aceh and Nias, during the transition following the closure of BRR.
Coordinating with key stakeholders in the reconstruction and rehabilitation process ensures that the MDF offers a relevant response to the needs of the people of Aceh and Nias.
The MDF is fulfilling its mandate and remains committed to the reconstruction process.
The last of the remaining funds are now being allocated to projects within the MDF portfolio.
The MDF’s recently-completed Mid Term Review (MTR) found that the MDF is highly relevant and performing well.
Status of the Portfolio
As of September 30, 2009, the MDF has a total of US $ 685 million in pledges, of which US $ 511 million has been received from the donors.
The MDF has a total of US $ 47 million1 remaining in unallocated funds.
The MDF has 22 projects with one in the preparation stage.
Community recovery projects have proved particularly successful in their approach as well as meeting their objectives.
Other areas of the portfolio have also shown significant progress in achieving targets during the past year as the majority of the projects are now in the full implementation stage.
New institutional arrangements for the MDF as a result of BRR’s closure have resulted in delays in progress across the portfolio.
Looking Ahead
Five years after the tsunami and earthquake, the overall recovery and reconstruction of Aceh and Nias can claim remarkable achievements.
With the reconstruction effort drawing to a close, the need for improving economic opportunities for the people of Aceh and Nias has become an urgent concern of local governments.
Facilitating smooth implementation of projects will continue to be a major concern to the MDF.
As the MDF portfolio matures and projects reach completion, valuable lessons learned are emerging.
