The overall performance of Asian Development Bank (ADB) projects in Tajikistan in 2021 was satisfactory despite continuing challenges associated with the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic, a review meeting concluded on March 14, the ADB Tajikistan Resident Mission (TJRM) says.
The meeting reportedly wrapped-up the virtual 2021 country portfolio review mission – an annual exercise jointly carried out by ADB and the government with executing and implementing agencies. Participants at the meeting discussed common issues affecting project implementation and agreed on an action plan to address them.
“COVID-19 has altered the way we do business,” said ADB Country Director for Tajikistan Shanny Campbell. “Yet again, another crisis has begun. The ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict may affect disbursement and payment transactions, given bank sanctions. But let us not falter. Let us jointly continue to aim for efficiency, value for money, diligence and innovativeness to remain effective, sustainable, and credible.”
ADB’s sovereign portfolio in Tajikistan in 2021 included 20 projects amounting to US$1,014 million, 92% of which were financed by grants. Transport and energy sectors remained the largest recipients of ADB financing last year. ADB also financed initiatives in agriculture, natural resources, and rural development; urban infrastructure; health; education; and finance sectors. In addition, there were 13 technical assistance grants totaling US$12 million.
Based on five performance indicators, including outputs, contract award, disbursement, financial management, and environmental and social safeguards, 13 ongoing projects (76%) were rated “On Track”, zero – “At Risk”, and four projects (24%) – “For Attention”, due to unmet contract award and disbursement targets, and financial management requirements.
During the meeting, ADB also recognized and presented awards to projects that had demonstrated solid results in 2021.
Tajikistan joined ADB in 1998. Over 24 years, ADB has become the largest multilateral development partner for Tajikistan supporting a diverse range of sectors – from strategic road and energy infrastructure to food security and social services – totaling US$2.3 billion in cumulative sovereign assistance including more than US$1.7 billion in grants.
Established in 1966, the Asian Development Bank is owned by 68 members—49 from the region.
