Operations Evaluation

Evaluation aims to provide an objective assessment of the Bank Group’s performance in achieving development results. As such, the primary role of the Bank’s Operations Evaluation Department (OPEV) is to assess the development effectiveness of Bank Group policies, strategies, and procedures. OPEV conducts thematic evaluation studies, sector policy reviews, country assistance evaluations and project evaluations, as well as ad hoc reviews requested by the Board.

Evaluation helps to ensure that the Bank is accountable to its governance bodies and to the public. It promotes learning from experience, both within and outside the Bank, so that the policies, strategies, and operations of the Bank and of its development partners can be improved in the future.

Two types of evaluations are conducted within the Bank:

• Self-evaluations implemented by the Bank’s operations complexes; and
• Independent evaluations, carried out by the Operations Evaluation Department.

Self Evaluations

Self-evaluation activities are undertaken by all country, sector, and thematic groups within the operations complexes, to inform and strengthen Bank policies and operations. One of the key self-evaluation tools used at the AfDB is the Project Completion Report prepared by operations teams.

Independent Evaluations

Independent evaluations within the Bank are undertaken by OPEV. Such evaluations provide objective, systematic assessments of the Bank’s performance; draw lessons and recommendations from past experience; and formulate recommendations to improve policies, strategies, and operations. Independent evaluation supports the Bank’s increasing emphasis on managing for development results.