PRIMUSS (started in March 2002)

The PRIMUSS project belongs to a GTZ TA project for an overall budget of 2,5 millions euros for the three first years (among which 500,000 dedicated to operational rehabilitation works).

Initially, there was a preparatory phase to examine the possibility of improving the drainage situation in the USS (upon demand from the former Mayor of Colombo). The preparatory study stated that not only the issue of drainage should be considered but extended to comprehensive service provision for the USS.

GTZ funding came subsequently to assist CMC to implement the so-called PRIMUSS project. A logical framework has been prepared for the first phase (3 years). Indicators have been set up to assess project outcomes.

Mr Shantha JAYANSUNDERA is at the head of the working group (upon Commissioner ‘s appointment). The WG gathers different representatives from CMC departments (engineers, health....).

The overall objective is to “improve the living conditions of the USS population in a sustainable manner”. For this , the project aims at facilitating access of USS communities to improved basic services according to their needs, priorities and capacities.

Three major outcomes are expected from this project, namely :

- the development by CMC of institutional infrastructures, instruments and procedures to respond to local initiatives;

- local upgrading projects are implemented in a participatory manner;

- CMC is institutionally empowered to participate in public-private-community initiatives, interventions and investments.

By December 2004, the project is to have planned, implemented and operated a minimum of 18 USS in all Districts.

PRIMUSS project methodology

The methodology employed in the scope of this project relies on two approaches clearly identified over time and corresponding to two different phases :

- the first phase (started from March 2002) consisted of selecting the pilot USS based on the Poverty Profile Report criteria prepared by CMC upon UNCHS funding. This was illustrative of a top-down approach where concerned communities were simply asked if they were to participate in the project. 25 USS have been selected on this base, the less populated ones were favoured at the beginning. However, this first hand selection has been reduced to 13 USS for maximum operational outcomes . Community meetings were thus organised in the 13 districts. Community modules were prepared (Community action plans for urban service improvement, including sanitary educational approach). The objective is to build a sound partnership between CMC and CBOs.

- the second phase (from 2003) would develop a bottom-up approach with the elaboration of the “Participatory Action Planning Process” (PAPP) to involve local community in mapping and planning procedures of their settlements, as well as in corresponding upgrading work plans.

At the District level, the project has established District teams. A major focus is given to capacity building and the possibility to raise local funding. PRIMUSS suggests that CMC opens a space for CBOs to prepare Community Action Plans and corresponding application reports for funding. The idea is to organise and raise funds which are sustainable (for example, the creation of a budget line from Municipal budget).

For any further information, please contact : PRIMUSS@sltnet.lk