As the SAFIPA programme comes to an end, the dialogue between southern Africa and Finland, does not end with it.  Newly established initiatives, in particular, the TANZICT and SAIS programmes are set to continue the legacy of dialogue – of which SAFIPA is a part – that began a decade ago.

The MFA has also conducted an external evaluation of the SAFIPA programme and the external reviewers were complimentary in noting that SAFIPA overall had contributed to and fulfilled its mandate of supporting and promoting the information society within SA.  Feedback regarding project implementation and grant management was given to the PMO and certain issues dealing with selection of projects, reporting requirements and monitoring and evaluation will be incorporated into the design of future initiatives. In particular the mechanism of support by the provision of in-country technical assistance and guidance and the capacity development and networking programmes coordinated by the PMO were highlighted as key factors contributing  to the success of the programme. It is important to note that sustainability of SAFIPA funded initiatives was critical and the PMO is pleased to report that of the 25 initiatives supported by the programme, at least 22 will be continued after the SAFIPA partnership has ended.

On reflection of SAFIPA outputs

Former counsellor of STI and Information Society, Embassy of Finland and member of the SAFIPA Supervisory Board and Steering committee from 2008 to November 2010, Ms Helena Tapper also commented that “one of the strongest impacts of SAFIPA is the creation of networks of people who work in the same area in ICT. These networks will remain after the programme. Further, the universities, public and private sector have today joint projects to develop ICT services in South Africa.”
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