Projects
Global Best Practice Group’s experts have undertaken multisectoral and multidisciplinary projects in their individual capacities for international development agencies, governments and private sector clients. Together they bring their collective knowledge and experience to provide solution-focused interventions and policy recommendations that seek to alleviate poverty, enhance transparency and good governance and increase livelihood options and human well-being quotients. Global Best Practice Group’s strategic inputs are directed towards sustainable development outcomes that integrate environmental, social and economic aspects into all decision-making activities.
Procurement Implementation under EU PRAG Rules
Provided legal procurement advice and technical assistance to the IGAD Promoting Peace & Stability in the Horn of Africa Region project team, ensuring adherence to EU PRAG procurement regulations. Supported capacity-building initiatives by guiding IGAD staff on procurement processes to align with EU requirements and international standards, delivering targeted feedback and legal recommendations. Advised IGAD leadership, including Heads of Programmes, and communicated key observations to the ADA Procurement and Finance Compliance Officers, contributing to improved compliance and operational efficiency in procurement activities.
Regulatory Reform for International Organizations
Conducted comprehensive reviews of procurement manuals, standard operating procedures (SOPs), and institutional procurement processes for several international organisations, including the International Criminal Court (ICC), the Global Centre for Adaptation, the Centre for Reproductive Rights, the European Spallation Source (ESS), and UNRWA. The work assessed compliance, effectiveness, and internal alignment of procurement frameworks with organisational policies and international best practices. Based on these reviews, prepared assessment and recommendations reports proposing improvements to governance structures, organisation of the procurement function, and the efficiency and consistency of procurement operations.
Procurement Policy Innovation
Authored a high-level policy paper exploring the potential of e-procurement to optimize public procurement processes, enhance efficiency, and improve overall effectiveness. Led innovative, policy-oriented research focused on leveraging e-procurement to generate value-added economic benefits and streamline both business and administrative operations, with a particular emphasis on e-GP Public Procurement within the Commonwealth. This initiative culminated in a data-driven policy paper presenting actionable insights and strategic recommendations to maximize the benefits of e-procurement technologies.
Food Voucher and Cash Assistance Program in an Economic Crisis
Expansion of National Social Protection Program in Pakistan
GBPG’s expert led the research and development of a technical proposal for the EHSAAS Nashonuma Program (ENP), a US$ 270 million nationwide initiative in Pakistan. This evidence-based program aims to break the intergenerational cycle of stunting by focusing on pregnant and lactating women, as well as children under the age of two. The ENP integrates subsidized distribution of nutritious food with social protection benefits, empowering women as key recipients. The proposal was successfully approved by the Government of Pakistan and is now being implemented in collaboration with the World Food Programme.
National Food Voucher Program to reduce Hunger and Malnutrition
Leadership in Social Development Programs
In a leadership role across multiple projects, GBPG’s expert guided diverse social development and welfare programs, with a strong focus on child development, protection, and education. This included successfully implementing UN projects and emergency relief initiatives, which left a positive impact on the communities served. The expert also oversaw a sports-for-development initiative in collaboration with various local and international stakeholders, providing technical support, conducting training programs, and ensuring effective progress reporting. Additionally, they drove child development, protection, cash transfer, and scholarship programs across 25 districts. Notable achievements included coordinating various projects, supporting UN initiatives, and playing a key role in the success of several relief projects. Their active participation in international forums further contributed to the launch of national initiatives aimed at enhancing child protection and welfare.
Coordination for Social Development
As a CSR Centre Manager, GBPG’s expert coordinated formal and informal education and social protection programmes related to diverse social development projects, including education, vocational training, and empowerment programs. This encompassed conducting awareness programs for parents of underprivileged youth as well as training sessions for teachers and therapists. Efforts contributed to fostering inclusive education and social protection networks in marginalized communities.
Child Protection in Sri Lanka
In response to the child protection challenges exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, GBPG’s expert worked closely with government bodies and child welfare agencies to develop and implement critical strategies. These efforts centered on equipping Child Rights Promotion Officers (CRPOs) across 25 districts in Sri Lanka with the tools and knowledge necessary to effectively manage and address child protection cases during this challenging period. By focusing on enhancing the capabilities of CRPOs, the initiative aimed to mitigate the heightened risks facing vulnerable children during the pandemic. The collaboration resulted in the creation of comprehensive guidelines designed to address the unique challenges brought on by the pandemic, such as increased risks of abuse, neglect, and exploitation due to lockdowns, school closures, and economic hardship. GBPG’s expert designed a series of capacity-building training programs to ensure that CRPOs were well-prepared to identify, report, and manage child protection cases under these new conditions.
Program on Economic Empowerment and Gender Equality
In partnership with international collaborators, this Sri Lankan initiative sought to empower marginalized girls and women by fostering income generation and community resilience through the establishment of Women Self Help Groups (SHGs). These SHGs encouraged non-formal savings methods, while also emphasizing the importance of building trust, social cohesion, and mutual support among women in local communities. The project provided job training opportunities tailored to the needs and aspirations of girls and women in selected areas, aligning their skills with long-term business goals. As the Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning (MEL) advisor, GBPG’s expert oversaw the regular monitoring and evaluation of the program in the Western Province of Sri Lanka. Additionally, the expert led the development of training modules and sessions focused on child rights, women’s rights, gender equality, and income generation, ensuring a comprehensive and holistic approach to community development.
National Project Coordination – Child Labour Project
GBPG’s expert played a crucial role in a project designed to strengthen child protection and social protection networks in Sri Lanka, with a focus on combating child labor. The initiative integrated child labor monitoring into the existing national system, enhancing the responsiveness and effectiveness of child protection measures. The expert led training programs at national, district, and divisional levels, equipping local authorities, community leaders, and Child Rights Promotion Officers (CRPOs) with the skills to identify and address child labor cases. These programs also emphasized the need to connect child labor prevention efforts with broader social protection systems, creating a more cohesive approach to child welfare. In addition to training, the expert launched awareness campaigns targeting communities, employers, and policymakers to highlight the harmful effects of child labor and the need to protect children’s rights. Research studies were conducted to evaluate the state of child labor and social protection systems, providing valuable insights for future policy development. These combined efforts not only improved child labor monitoring but also strengthened Sri Lanka’s overall child protection and social welfare networks, fostering a more resilient system for safeguarding vulnerable children.
The Final Evaluation of Early Childhood Development (ECD) Project of the Solidarité Laïque in Sri Lanka
In collaboration with a prominent consultancy as a consultant and evaluator, GBPG’s expert played a significant role in the final evaluation of the Early Childhood Development (ECD) project in Sri Lanka. This extensive assessment covered 10 districts, involving direct engagement with a diverse range of stakeholders, including government authorities, preschool administrators, educators, and parents. Through interviews, surveys, and focus group discussions, the expert gathered valuable insights into the effectiveness and impact of the ECD initiatives, examining aspects such as curriculum implementation, teaching methodologies, and parental involvement. The findings were meticulously analyzed and compiled into a comprehensive report, which was then disseminated to relevant stakeholders in both France and Sri Lanka. This collaborative effort not only highlighted the successes and challenges of the ECD project but also provided actionable recommendations for future improvements, ultimately contributing to enhanced early childhood education policies and practices in the region.
Child Development, Women Empowerment and Community Development
GBGP’s expert supported efforts to develop and implement training modules on child rights, development, and protection. Instrumental in implementing child development, protection, sports for development, women’s empowerment, and community development programs.
Further projects saw the expert contribute to supporting Rehabilitation Officers of the Department of Prisons in Sri Lanka in enhancing child protection knowledge for imprisoned mothers. As the Lead Trainer of a prominent international organization, training sessions covered child safeguarding and protection, contributing to the overall success of these initiatives.
Capacity Strengthening Of Procurement Operations
Expert advisory services were provided to implement a 50% increase in operational and programmatic surge in the Mines Advisory Group’s Sri Lanka country office. This involved the operationalization of a revised procurement strategic plan providing for alignment and development with key counterparts in Sri Lankan industry and Government and the creation of a consolidated procurement plan. Procurement capacity was reinforced and strengthened through modular instructional programs for key staff and delivering customized training.
E- Procurement Systems For EBRD Technical Cooperation Projects
Funded by the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), this assignment provided legal and contractual systems expertise to both state-owned and private sector enterprises, aiming to enhance the participation of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in public tenders for EBRD technical cooperation projects in Jordan and Tunisia. The primary goal was to facilitate the familiarization and adoption of electronic procurement systems, processes, regulations, and tools. To achieve this, capacity-building activities included workshops and training sessions that showcased best practices to procuring entities and SMEs. A significant emphasis was placed on training programs tailored for women-led SMEs interested in electronic bidding. These initiatives aimed to increase awareness of gender-responsive procurement, elevate the visibility of women entrepreneurs among procuring entities, and empower women to engage effectively in the public procurement process.
Procurement Optimization
Global Best Practice Group’s expert was engaged by the Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC), a prominent international humanitarian agency to optimize their existing procedures and enhance procurement control systems and accountability within the procurement function. The expert conducted a thorough situational analysis and comprehensive review of all procurement rules and practices across NRC’s Middle East region, which included eight regional offices. This extensive assessment identified key areas for improvement and led to the development of revised procedures aimed at streamlining operations. The new procedures were designed to empower NRC to make informed strategic decisions that significantly improved both cost-efficiency and the overall impact of its supply chain management. By implementing these optimized processes, the NRC was better positioned to ensure accountability, enhance oversight mechanisms, and ultimately improve its capacity to deliver vital assistance to refugees in the region, thereby strengthening its operational effectiveness in addressing humanitarian needs.
Greater Mekong Subregion Core Agricultural Support Program (GMS CASP)
The GMS CASP regional initiative aims at strengthening food and energy security while addressing climate change, human and institutional capacity, cross border trade, increasing access and connectivity to national, regional and international markets and developing rural renewable energy projects. GBPG’s expert was retained by the Asian Development Bank to evaluate the existing financing architecture with regard to cross border trade, regional connectivity and market development in the agriculture, environment, and energy sectors and assess financing options, instruments and modalities, to scale public and private investments to close the financing gap. A value chain based integrated approach was developed focusing on de-risking mechanisms and viable green investment opportunities to catalyze private sector engagement. This entailed a strategic framework to establish Agribusiness Development Centres and recommendations on financing initiatives to support small farm holders’ adoption of climate friendly and sustainable agriculture practices for crop improvement and higher yields (small-medium investments). Innovative strategies were proposed to increase subregional agricultural competitiveness and agribusiness investment through modernized trading systems that provide connectivity to regional and global markets through regional economic corridors thus enhancing regional cooperation and connectivity.
Coral Triangle Initiative On Coral Reefs, Fisheries And Food Security (CTI-CFF)
The CTI-CFF is funded by international donors and multilaterals and implemented by the Asian Development Bank (ADB). It is a regional cooperation partnership program comprising Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Papua New Guinea, Solomon Islands and Timor Leste, that focuses on poverty reduction through economic development, food security, sustainable livelihoods for coastal communities and biodiversity conservation. Global Best Practice Group’s expert was retained by ADB as the Lead Project Manager to advance a suite of interventions, recommend program activities, develop project pipelines, assist with financing documentation and support private sector intervention modules. The project envisaged setting up a Business Development Unit to liaise and coordinate with consultants, development partners, government ministries, thematic working groups, CTI Regional Secretariat, national coordinators and stakeholders including potential private sector investors. A Financial Architecture study was coordinated with external consultants and several country specific knowledge publications were produced included the State of the Coral Triangle reports that provide a baseline documentation of the biophysical and socio-economic characteristics and environmental vulnerabilities of the coastal and marine ecosystems as well as the institutional framework for governing marine resource use. Assistance was provided in evaluating projects and in particular developing infrastructure investment pilot projects for execution including mobilizing financial resources. A Strategic Framework for an Integrated Fisheries Development Centre Value Chain investment concept together with a pilot demonstration project was prepared as a PPP investment for Philippines.
Financing Options for Climate-Friendly Agribusinesses in the GMS
Global Best Practice Group’s expert was engaged by the Asian Development Bank to evaluate financing options for climate-friendly agribusinesses within the Greater Mekong Subregion (GMS), focusing on identifying the needs, gaps, and key challenges associated with funding for green infrastructure and technologies. The evaluation process involved extensive consultations with stakeholders and analysis of existing financial frameworks, leading to the identification of regional priorities for action over the next five years. This comprehensive assessment culminated in the development of a detailed paper that was presented at the GMS Climate Change & Environmental Sustainability Program and the GMS Sustainable Agriculture & Food Security Program Consultative Workshops. These workshops, attended by GMS country partners, served as a platform for discussing innovative financial mechanisms and resource mobilization strategies aimed at funding impactful projects. By presenting tailored solutions to enhance financial accessibility for climate-friendly agribusinesses, the expert contributed to fostering a more sustainable agricultural landscape in the region. This initiative not only aimed to promote environmentally sustainable practices but also seeked to bolster the resilience of agribusinesses against climate change, ultimately supporting food security and economic development in the GMS.
Cambodia: National Environment And Strategic Action Plan 2016-23 (NESAP)
The NESAP is Cambodia’s road map for Sustainable Development. It provides a detailed analysis of the state of the environment in Cambodia and outlines priority policy and governance improvements and financing mechanisms that can help it to achieve environmentally sustainable economic improvements. Global Best Practice Group’s expert was retained by the Asian Development Bank under the GMS Core Environment Program to help draft the NESAP and specifically to prepare comprehensive project profiles and a compendium of environmental projects being implemented, approved but not commissioned, under active consideration, and those that were in the planning stages. Based on this data a US$ 263 million pipeline of current and planned environmental projects and programs were included in the NESAP. Each project was evaluated and referenced in terms of its contribution to achieve the nationally agreed Sustainable Development Goals. A detailed analysis of available funding streams and the financing gaps and opportunities for bridging the same was identified. NESAP was approved by the Royal Government of Cambodia in December 2018.
Pilot Program For Climate Resilience (PPCR)
Global Best Practice Group’s expert was retained by the Asian Development Bank as an Adaptation Investment Specialist to develop a set of investment opportunities for financing under the Climate Investment Fund’s PPCR Competitive Private Sector Set Aside-funded activities. Our expert (i) Identified key agriculture sectors where the role of the private sector was relevant and/or required for the effective development of a value chain-based climate resilience project; (ii) Liaised with relevant stakeholders, local chambers of commerce, professional associations, potential private sector clients, and farmer communities through a combination of workshops and private meetings; (iii) Obtained responses regarding interest and involvement in specific climate adaptation project and program opportunities, and challenges and constraints experienced; and (iv) Developed a comprehensive Integrated Climate Resilient Rice Value Chain and Community development project as per PPCR guidelines. The project aimed to reduce the climate vulnerability of at least 50,000 smallholder farmers in the Battambang and Pursat provinces of Cambodia by increasing rice production and value, and improving access to extension services and affordable loans in addition to providing food and livelihood security. It covered all aspects of the rice value chain, from production to post-harvest and marketing, thus providing seamless support to SMEs whilst addressing climate risks, reducing wastage, increasing agricultural productivity and enhancing income.
Cambodia: Climate Resilient Rice Commercialization Sector Development Program
The services of Global Best Practice Group’s expert were retained by the Asian Development Bank as a Business focused Resource Efficiency specialist for developing an Agriculture Rice Commercialization Sector Development Plan for Cambodia to support its Strategy on Agriculture and Water and the Rice Strategy by creating an enabling investment and regulatory environment. Tasks undertaken included: (i) Assessed the status quo of resource utilization by rice-related households/entities, their production capacity, constraints, operational bottlenecks, regulatory issues, and potential for improvement in efficiency and output by developing robust rice value chain initiatives leading to poverty reduction, inclusivity, and achievement of Cambodia Rice Policy goals and objectives. (ii) Proposed business focused climate change adaptation initiatives with regard to irrigation water efficiency, post–harvesting facilities and marketing strategies. (iii) Recommended innovative, financially self-sustaining and environmentally friendly initiatives to be developed as pilot projects on a PPP basis. (iv) Proposed value chain–based resilient agribusiness project investments and capacity building activities for inclusion in the Sector Development Plan with cost estimates and investment phasing.
Public Private Partnership Agreement For A Weather Indexed Climate Insurance (WICI) Scheme
The agriculture sector contributes nearly 23% to Cambodia’s GDP and is a source of livelihood and income for about 40% of its population. Poverty reduction, food security and productivity improvement remain the major objectives of the government and formed the basis for the Rice Sector Development Strategy. Cambodia is extremely vulnerable to the impacts of climate change leading to extreme weather events such as droughts and floods. An Asian Development Bank loan together with grants from the Global Agriculture and Food Security Program and the Strategic Climate Fund financed a Weather Indexed Climate Insurance (WICI) scheme to increase the resilience of rice farming households to climate and natural disaster risks. It is expected that through WICI, rice farm income losses caused by climate and natural disaster risk will be reduced and farmers will be able to replace seed without depleting their cash resources and procure better quality agricultural inputs. Global Best Practice Group’s expert was retained as a Public Private Partnership (PPP) specialist in a multidisciplinary team of consultants to evaluate previous crop insurance schemes, lessons learned, research successful international best practices for crop insurance and develop a comprehensive PPP agreement between insurance companies, farmers and the government. Tasks included: Obtained consensus on government subsidy, warranties, responsibilities of the parties and contract terms and conditions; Ensured transparent invitation processes and held detailed consultations with potential insurance PPP partners, legal advisors and related stakeholders; Guided national consultants to conduct training for officials and WICI awareness workshops for farmers; and Assisted in the selection of PPP partners, coordinated PPP implementation, and roll-out of the scheme.
Green Freight Initiative – Design Of Low-Carbon Freight Sector Pilot Projects
The freight sector in the Greater Mekong Subregion (GMS comprising of Cambodia, Laos, Thailand and Vietnam) is dominated by road transport that ferries about 80% of all freight tonnage. Aging vehicles, poor fuel efficiency, inefficient fleet management and high operational costs contributed to increased Greenhouse Gas emissions. There was a need to develop an institutional framework in the road freight sector by bundling access to finance and fuel-efficient technologies and building driver and management capacity in an enabling policy environment. Global Best Practice Group’s expert was retained by the Asian Development Bank as a member of a multidisciplinary team to develop pragmatic and implementable pilot projects that have the approval, participation and support of the national governments as well as the freight operator associations and the SME operators. Following a review of the road sector freight scenario and an understanding of the areas of concern specific interventions were proposed for (i) Low Carbon technologies pilot; (ii) Vehicle Upgrade or low-cost loans pilot; (iii) Eco-driving training pilot for freight companies; and (iv) Logistics management pilot to reduce backhaul and increase fleet efficiency.
Innovative Financing Options For A COVID-19 Fund For Philippines
The Covid 19 pandemic reduced an emerging Philippines economy to a standstill and reversed most of the economic gains achieved over the last few years. In 2020 GDP declined by 9.5%, foreign direct investments reduced by nearly 25%, revenue collection fell by 9% and the national debt increased by 26.7% leading to increased inflation and unemployment. The Asian Development Bank implemented a Rapid Emergency Supplies Provision program to address the immediate adverse impact of the pandemic – loss of income and food security. Global Best Practice Group’s expert was retained to design a longer term innovative and sustainable financing solution for the Government of Philippines to consider as a funding mechanism for pandemics and related disaster related emergencies. A review of the socio-economic impacts of the Covid-19 pandemic, assessment of the government response and a comparison of its recovery strategy with international recovery actions provided a clear understanding of the areas for intervention. Clear objectives for a Covid-19 Fund with a focus on financing SMEs by providing climate smart solutions and green transformation investments were developed to seek financial support from climate and other international funding agencies. Innovative financing options including bond and fund mechanisms were evaluated for kickstarting the economy and building resilience. A Trust Fund architecture was recommended as the next step to strengthen financial preparedness against socio-economic crises and build resilience to impacts of climate change.
Innovative Finance For Sustainable Infrastructure
Infrastructure investment is key to economic growth and yet the world is facing a widening infrastructure deficit. The existing pace of infrastructure development has been unable to meet the demands of a growing population. On the one hand it is positively influenced by globalization, higher literacy levels, digital transformation and economic and social initiatives to raise living standards; but, on the other hand, it is adversely impacted by climate change and the increased threat of natural and weather-related disasters. Investments in infrastructure will require a paradigm shift both in the mind-set and in the conception of developmental initiatives so that they are not viewed as the sole responsibility of the public sector but as a viable opportunity for the private sector to partner and share in its financial and social benefits. Global Best Practice Group’s expert was retained to research and develop a Green Finance Innovative Finance knowledge publication for the Asian Development Bank as a publicly available resource for leveraging public resources to catalyze private capital for climate resilient sustainable infrastructure. The knowledge product, Reinvigorating Financial Approaches for Sustainable and Resilient Infrastructure in ASEAN+3, provides an overview of the infrastructure financing outlook and infrastructure financing needs and gaps assessment in SE Asia and the Pacific. It not only highlights the growing infrastructure and resource requirements, but also shares ingenious financial approaches that have been adopted in different geographies. It fulfills the need for a knowledge product that creates awareness on structuring project financing, strategic use of public funds, de-risking of investments and creating a green investment-enabled environment. A cross-section of global innovative financing mechanisms, both existing and evolving, ranging from blended finance structures to bonds are included, together with case studies, to illustrate how traditional financing systems have been remodeled to achieve project objectives and can be utilized to bridge the infrastructure gap.
Justification And Valuation Of Natural Capital Investments
Agriculture and natural resources (ANR) are an integral component of a nation’s wealth. They provide the foundation for human sustenance, livelihood and economic development activity. Global Best Practice Group’s expert was retained by the Asian Development Bank to undertake a study to provide justification for agriculture and natural capital investments made by multilateral development banks. The sustainability of ANR ecosystems can be achieved through a perpetual stream of investments that restore, revive, replenish and replace expended and utilized resources. The study reviewed empirical evidence of returns in the context of poverty reduction potential of ANR investments and creation of infrastructure for sustainability and social protection concerns. The relevance of natural capital valuation methodologies and quantification of ecosystem services was examined. Existing ground realities, approaches, and actions taken by policy makers and developmental agencies, including Multilateral Development Banks, towards investments in natural capital were reviewed in the context of the role of ANR ministries and the influence that they exerted on development agendas of government. Developed a framework for making ANR investments justifiable in terms of returns, tangible results, benefits, and positive impacts, that are acceptable to policymakers and investors. An ecosystems approach to integrated management and planning was suggested for natural resource utilization and conservation. Existing financing mechanisms for ANR projects and services were evaluated in terms of the investment strategy and expectations of the investors and new funding sources for the sector were proposed through an investment framework for specific investor groups.
Innovative Approaches To Finance Environment Sector Public Private Partnership Projects
Accelerated and substantial investment in adaptation and mitigation technologies are required to address the challenges of climate change and secure a low carbon and sustainable energy future. Active participation and investment of the private sector is critical for the transition to low carbon footprint, high resource sustainability, high energy efficient and climate-resilient economies. Global Best Practice Group’s expert was retained by the Asian Development Bank to identify a range of appropriate financing instruments to be applied to promote green growth in the agriculture, environment and natural resources sectors of SE Asian countries. Following a review of existing global and regional environmental capital markets and ADB’s public and private sector financing instruments, an Environment Sector PPP and private sector Investment Opportunities and financing options report was developed. A Strategic Financing Framework was proposed to support private sector involvement in climate change adaptation measures, technologies, and initiatives that provide sustainable solutions. Natural resource management, creation of climate resilient infrastructure, food security and GHG emission reduction were identified as the core concentration areas. Pilot projects for clean tech, capacity building and improvements in the regulatory framework were recommended. All pilots included a sustainable private sector investment component. Options and opportunities to introduce and scale up Public Private Partnerships for financing environment sector operations were also assessed and an Environment Investment Fund structure was recommended to finance climate proof and disaster risk resilient projects.
Financing Options For Climate Friendly Agribusinesses In The GMS
Global Best Practice Group’s expert was retained by the Asian Development Bank to evaluate financing options for climate – friendly agribusinesses in the GMS, determine needs, gaps, and key challenges for financing options for green infrastructure and technologies. Priorities were identified for action over the next five years on a regional basis. A comprehensive paper was presented at the GMS Climate Change & Environmental Sustainability Program and GMS Sustainable Agriculture & Food Security Program Consultative Workshops with GMS country partners to provide innovative financial mechanisms and resource mobilization initiatives for funding projects.
Institutional Support To Nam Papa Lao (Lao Water Authority)
The Asian Development Bank provided technical assistance for institutional strengthening of Nam Papa Lao (Lao Water Authority) through human resources development to enhance capabilities in financial management, planning, billing and tariff structure. Global Best Practice Group’s expert was retained as an individual consultant to establish an integrated technical and financial Management Information System (MIS). Developed and implemented technical and accounting management processes including O&M works programming, inventory control, cost analysis, budgeting and budgetary control for performance measurement and monitoring. An Internal Audit function was established and detailed procedure manuals were developed. Finance and technical staff were trained on the use of the MIS, and the structuring and analysis of performance and activity reports. Internal Audit training workshops were conducted for identified Finance staff to improve compliance and risk management. Developed a Strategic Systems Plan that mapped IT infrastructure (hardware and software requirement specifications) and assessed staff capabilities and user information requirements.
Financial Management And Control Systems Project – Dubai Electricity & Water Authority
Following the merger of the Dubai Water Department and the Dubai Electricity Company into a single statutory body – Dubai Electricity & Water Authority, KPMG – UAE was retained to design, develop and implement detailed financial and commercial procedures for a unified billing, accounting, inventory control, procurement, budgetary control and financial management reporting systems. As Project Manager, Global Best Practice Group’s expert led a team of consultants that set up the revised financial systems and ensured implementation through training workshops. Based on the success of the financial management assignment, the firm was awarded the Management Audit of the newly established authority for a period of 2 years. This involved review of all technical, financial and administrative activities, undertaking efficiency cum performance audits and development and documentation of internal audit procedures. Supervision of joint audit teams, preparation of audit and control checklists for each functional area, risk assessment, discussion and presentation of reports to management and implementation of revised procedures and recommendations was also undertaken.
Institutional Strengthening Of Urban Local Authorities – Sri Lanka
Consequent upon the decentralization and devolution of authority to local councils in Sri Lanka, the World Bank and UNDP funded a Municipal Management project to improve the operational performance, strengthen capacity, and ensure effective service delivery and financial stability of Urban Local Authorities (ULAs). As a member of Tata Consultancy Services’ management consulting team, Global Best Practice Group’s expert was retained as a Performance Improvement Advisor (Financial Management & Resource Mobilization) to the Ministry of Urban Development & Provincial Councils, Govt. of Sri Lanka. Major tasks included: (i) Design and implement improved budgeting and budgetary control, financial accounting, book keeping, MIS, Asset and Depreciation Management systems. (ii) Develop and implement Resource Mobilization and tariff policies to increase efficiency to enhance collections and reduce arrears. (iii) Strengthen capacity through training workshops to familiarize staff with new and revised systems. (iv) Establish minimum standards of performance for ULAs and monitor progress based on a Performance Improvement Plan.
Comparative Infrastructure Development Assessment Of The Republic Of Korea And Kingdom Of Thailand
The Asian Development Bank retained the services of Global Best Practice Group’s expert as a Water sector specialist to undertake a comparative infrastructure development assessment between South Korea and Thailand. The evolution of water sector planning was traced in both countries and field visits and discussions were held with stakeholders, agencies, government ministries and private sector operators. A comprehensive comparative infrastructure assessment was undertaken to identify service inefficiencies and inadequacies in capacity. Implementable solutions and recommendations were developed based on lessons learned. Areas of improvement and mutual cooperation between the two countries were identified as opportunities for ADB intervention and mutual cooperation and collaboration.
Procurement And Communication Strategies For PPPs
When the Government of Sri Lanka identified private sector investment as the key to rapid infrastructure development to achieve greater economic growth it was identified that partnerships with the private sector on projects would lead to a sharing of the development and financing risk, provide a commercial and market focused approach, improve the quality of technical and managerial services and introduce private sector capital into project development. Under the GBPG expert prepared new PPP Guidelines and conducted supporting activities including delivering procurement capacity building workshops and advisory consultations to advance resilient procurement best practices and strategies. Stakeholders included the Ministry of Finance, the National Procurement Commission, and the Ministry of Industry and Commerce.
Multi-Country Infrastructure Procurement Advisory Portfolio
Under the auspices of the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC), as part of the MCC Engineers Representative consulting framework, the GBPG expert led a dedicated team of government procurement specialists, environmental advisors, and technical engineers in managing a diverse portfolio of MCC projects valued at $25 million. This extensive program encompassed significant infrastructure initiatives across eight countries, including Armenia, Georgia, Ghana, Tanzania, Moldova, Cape Verde, Mozambique, and Lesotho. The projects involved critical areas such as irrigation infrastructure in Armenia, road infrastructure in Georgia and Ghana, and comprehensive water, power, and road infrastructure in Tanzania. Additionally, efforts in Cape Verde focused on reforms within the WASH utility sector and municipal institutional development through public-private partnerships (PPPs), while projects in Mozambique targeted the WASH sector and roads, and Lesotho aimed to enhance healthcare facilities. The primary objective of this program was to provide robust oversight and support for the procurement processes related to these large-scale infrastructure projects, which collectively exceeded a total value of $1 billion. By ensuring that procurement practices met high standards of efficiency, transparency, and accountability, the expert’s leadership contributed significantly to the successful implementation of vital infrastructure developments that are essential for economic growth and improved quality of life in these countries.
Design and implementation of an Internal Control Framework
This assignment in the Philippines was commissioned by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and funded by the United Kingdom’s Foreign and Commonwealth Office with the aim of enhancing transparency, fairness, and competition in public procurement. The initiative also focused on promoting integrity and accountability in line with international best practice methodologies and literature, including frameworks such as the Methodology for Assessing Procurement Systems (MAPS), the Support for Improvement in Governance and Management (SIGMA) principles, the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) standards, and the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO) principles. To achieve these objectives, a comprehensive Internal Control Framework was meticulously designed and implemented to address and mitigate integrity risks within the Philippine public procurement ecosystem. The framework was developed in collaboration with three pilot agencies: the Department of Health, the Department of Education, and the Department of Local Government and Interior. Through this targeted approach, the project sought to bolster the capacity of these agencies to adhere to best practices in procurement, thereby fostering a more robust and resilient system that not only reduces the potential for corruption but also enhances public trust in government processes. The implementation of this Internal Control Framework is expected to lead to significant improvements in procurement outcomes, ensuring that public resources are utilized efficiently and effectively for the benefit of all citizens.
Public Private Partnerships: Fundamentals Of Public Investment Management
The Maldives is an upper middle-income country that is largely dependent upon tourism to sustain its economy. Investment in economic and social infrastructure projects is critical to enhance tourism capacity and productivity and contribute to poverty reduction and improved living standards. PPPs mechanisms provide a good opportunity for the private sector to invest in infrastructure development in collaboration with the government. As a key technical advisor for the USAID funded project, assistance was provided to the Government of Maldives to prioritize infrastructure projects that provided the highest returns, attracted private investment and reduced dependence on high-risk and expensive debt financing. A Charter for a National PPP unit was developed with comprehensive PPP Guidance documentation including PPP Procurement guidelines. Capacity building activities were undertaken and a PPP Advisory Unit was established to support ministries and assist private investors to develop projects by adopting performance-based budgeting and transparency in all contracting activities.
Infrastructure Sector Assessment Program
Prior to embarking upon development projects governments must undertake a thorough assessment of the various critical infrastructure sectors to determine the requirements for new developments, enhancements to scale up capacity, retrofit existing plant and equipment and provide opportunities for private sector participation. GBPG’s expert was retained by the World Bank to assist in developing a Infrastructure Sector Assessment Program diagnostic tool to inform how the Maldives government and the World Bank group can partner to leverage macro-economic linkages to improve access and performance across key infrastructure sectors. A PPP cross cutting analysis was a central part of the report that recommended interventions including policy changes and potential bottlenecks that needed to be corrected.
Implementation Of A Vendor Master Data Management System
Digital transformation is key to process optimization and involves the strategic integration of digital technologies and processes to fundamentally reshape and enhance an organization’s operations, services, and value delivery. Driven by the necessity to streamline inefficient processes associated with managing Accounts Receivable and Accounts Payable, GBPG’s expert implemented a Vendor Master Data Management System for a regional commercial organization. The challenge lay in devising user-friendly interfaces while orchestrating elaborate workflows that spanned numerous internal teams and engaged external vendors within a meticulously synchronized ecosystem. To guarantee data precision, they incorporated cutting-edge authentication and business verification tools, fortifying the accuracy of captured information across the entire operation.
Design Of An Organizational Data Management Strategy
Global Best Practice Group’s expert was retained by an international manufacturing company to design and implement a new data management strategy. This strategy revolutionized their operational landscape, enabling geographically dispersed professionals to collaborate seamlessly on projects within a meticulously structured framework. This agile environment empowered them to meticulously review and collectively endorse each other’s work before transitioning it into a production-ready state. This achievement was made possible through the implementation of a dynamic array of workflows, web-based user interfaces, and meticulous approval stages. With an extensive dataset comprising over a million attributes and products, staff effortlessly assigned tasks to their counterparts and received real-time notifications for collaborative assistance. This transformative tool not only fostered a unified work environment but also ensured structured data integrity, primed for advanced analytics and effortless searchability.
Ornamental Fish Farming In Sri Lanka
Being a rural based economy, Sri Lanka depends heavily on the export of traditional food exports, such as tea, coconut and spices, as well as rubber and garments. In the last decades the ornamental aquatic export industry has flourished and has contributed to the diversification of exports, created additional employment opportunities and helped integrate displaced populations in rural areas. The Global Best Practice Group expert led this project focused on livelihood restoration and the economic integration of women in rural areas with high unemployment, assisting them in the establishment of small scale ornamental fish farms that provided them with a steady and autonomous source of income. Many participating women were widowed or single mothers with limited access to the labour market, who can now rely on ornamental fish farming to be able to maintain their families. It also provided an income opportunity for mothers with no childcare possibility, who found in self-employment a viable and culturally acceptable alternative. The project provided capacity building opportunities and initial set-up assistance, as well as links with ornamental fish exporters to ensure the sustainability of the fish farms and success of the female entrepreneurs.
