As a broad-based integrated rural development project, OCISP may be considered as having been
effective. Through investments in rural infrastructure, it brought the target population in remote
villages closer to markets and services, and provided greater access to safe water. The construction of
school dormitories led to increased enrolment in primary and secondary school; in addition, savings
and credit schemes mobilized village savings and provided funds for small agricultural and trading
enterprises. The villagers also benefited from health, nutrition and adult literacy programmes,
improved communications and educational activities. The process of participatory village planning
was strengthened so that villagers were better able to agree on their priorities and gained more
confidence in negotiating with district government service providers. Women’s wellbeing and access
to decision-making processes also improved under the project.