Strengthening Somalia’s Systems Smartly: A Country Systems Risk Benefit Analysis

Despite the high-level commitments made on using country systems, Somalia continues to trail other fragile states in critical dimensions, including the proportion of aid delivered “On Budget.” Given the explicit focus on statebuilding in Somalia, the preferencing of short-term operational concerns over long-term government systems building appears to run counter to the international community’s stated objectives. No delivery modality is without risk; both country systems and alternative delivery channels have drawbacks. But these options also have differing strengths, depending on the type of project, sector or situation. In finding the right mix of tools, both government and international partners need to focus more on the statebuilding goals towards which they are jointly committed. This report examines donors’ decision-making about the use of country systems, exploring both the perceived and actual risks and benefits associated with it. It also articulates recommendations for improving and increasing the use of country systems, with relevance that extends beyond the Somali context. The report was financed with the generous support of the UN-WB Partnership Fund.