Planning Unit
The Planning Unit (PU) was recently established under the PSO ER2019 to take on the role of planning, monitoring and coordination of projects funded locally and externally. The overall management, advice and coordination of MFAI, OB and PSO development projects, funding, and strategic or operational plans are the primary objectives of this support Unit. It consists of 2 Officers, the Project Officer working under the supervision the Senior Project and Planning Officer. The PU responsibilities and services include but not limited to the following;
- Formulation of Project Document
Project ideas could either be initiated from each family Ministry or directed from Cabinet Decision(s) on development needs and issues that respective Ministry’s project would aim to provide solution(s) to. Consultation with relevant project partners and stakeholders during the development of proposal is key to maximizing project impacts and benefits.
- Proposal Appraisal and NEPO Submission
The Planning Unit works mutually with respective Divisions of each family Ministry to appraise their proposals prior submissions to the National Economic Planning Office (NEPO) of the Ministry of Finance and Economic Development. The preliminary appraisal carry out by the Planning Unit is vital to ensure timely approval and implementation of proposed project(s).
- Project Accounting and Warranting
The Unit serves to assist Ministries’ Divisions with the release of their general and accounting warrants to enable projects to implement and complete on schedule and target. Under the guidance of the Senior Accountant, this support Unit assists with project Acquittal and preparation of the Development Budget.
- MSP and MOP Formulation, Review and Evaluation
The Planning Unit assists in the formulation of the host Ministry i.e. PSO MSP and MoP for effective phasing and implementation. At operational year end, the Unit is responsible to coordinate the review and evaluation of these Plans.
- Briefing and Project Meeting
From time to time, the Planning Unit provides briefing reports on Projects’ updates and statuses to the three (3) Secretaries of the family Ministries. The representation of the Planning Unit to project meetings ensures consistent and smooth coordination and reporting.
- Project Database and Reporting
In the not so distant future the Planning Unit is working toward centralizing project information and data pertinent for future reference and record when required. Monitoring and reporting of project(s) progresses and statuses are valuable and among the important role of this established Unit.