We have conducted an interview with head of program and grant management Hanna Sofie Johansen, who is responsible for Digni’s annual report to Norad.
“Overall, we see stronger results in 2024 compared to achievements in 2023. We had 89 projects in 28 different countries. Over 90% of the projects have shown progress according to their plans, or better, in 2024. The high level of progress is partly due to strategic efforts on capacity development and close follow up from Norwegian member organisations”, says Hanna.
We have chosen two examples of good results, but there are many more that could have been highlighted.
Community-driven results in Uganda
Two projects in Uganda have shown strong results on the ground. One reason for this is their broad community participation, as well as close cooperation with local authorities and good coordination with other NGOs. The project used saving and loaning groups as an organising element and a platform to establish other groups working with agriculture, nutrition and WASH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene). Latrine coverage at household level was increased to 99%, and sanitation was significantly improved for more than 6 300 households. A dramatic reduction in waterborne diseases has been observed, with 56% reduction in cases annually from the 2020 to 2024.
“Many of the projects with good results across thematic areas, organise participants into community-based structures. The most successful projects combine this organising with advocacy work and cooperation with both government structures and other organisations. This kind of cooperation can create positive ripple effects, also beyond the local context, says Hanna Sofie Johansen”
ICDP in Nepal and Bangladesh
In Nepal, one project has had a wide impact by providing training in the International Child Development Programme (ICDP) to more than 100 civil society organisations, institutions, and churches, both within and outside Nepal. ICDP facilitators have been trained in nine governmental municipalities, and the project has facilitated a regional network conference with participants from six countries. This project partner now serves as a national and regional hub, without funding from Digni.
There is also a similar project in Bangladesh, that has had a wider national outreach than planned for through partnering with UNICEF. Parents and caregivers that have received ICDP-training show a positive change in attitudes and interaction with the children they care for.
“Both in Nepal and Bangladesh, we see that specialised project partners can achieve societal impact by providing other NGOs with knowledge and tools to promote positive parenting and child development, says Hanne Sofie Johansen”
“Digni’s Annual report for 2024 reflects a year of strong implementation, strategic collaboration, and a considerable contribution towards the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development,” says Hanna Sofie Johansen.