Initiatives

Initiative

Building Resilient Rural Communities in Bosnia and Herzegovina: An Evaluation of Sustainable Livelihood Program and its Socio-Economic and Environmental Impacts

Donor: Muslim Aid Association BiH, Muslim Aid UK, Latter-day Saint Charities (LDSC)

Implementation period: Sept 2024 – May 2025

This project implemented a comprehensive, mixed-methods impact evaluation of the Sustainable Livelihood Projects run in Bosnia and Herzegovina. These projects, implemented across 80 municipalities, aimed to improve the socio-economic resilience and food security of over 4,000 vulnerable families—encompassing greenhouse vegetable production, cattle farming, and beekeeping initiatives. The evaluation assessed the long-term impact on beneficiaries’ quality of life, income generation, food access, well-being, and environmental sustainability, with special focus on the inclusion of marginalized groups such as women, youth, returnees, and persons with disabilities. 

The project gathered both quantitative data through structured telephone surveys with more than 450 individuals and qualitative insights via focus groups, interviews, and case studies across the country. The evaluation methodology followed OECD DAC criteria (relevance, effectiveness, efficiency, impact, sustainability, coordination, accountability, and inclusion) to ensure a comprehensive assessment. It also explored the broader community impact, environmental contributions, and replicability of successful models. Findings were validated through stakeholder workshops and translated into practical recommendations to inform the future design and scaling of MAA’s livelihood programming in Bosnia and Herzegovina. 

The project resulted in a 160-page evaluation report, and the findings were shared globally with faith-based humanitarian organizations working on rural sustainable development. These insights contributed to global learning on how to improve livelihoods programs for long-term socio-economic impact while integrating strategies to mitigate climate change and enhance environmental sustainability.