Information paper on technical assistance provided to countries and territories of the ECA region under the expanded and regular programmes

Abstract

This report outlines the technical assistance provided in 1961 by the United Nations and its affiliated organizations under the Expanded Programme of Technical Assistance (EPTA) and regular programs to countries within the Economic Commission for Africa (ECA) region. Despite delays in program implementation due to administrative challenges, progress was evident, with flexibility in adapting projects to national priorities. The report highlights regional training initiatives, statistical capacity-building, and economic planning support, emphasizing the role of Resident Representatives in coordinating assistance. Decentralization efforts and project-based programming were introduced to enhance efficiency, with a focus on aligning aid with national development plans. Examples of country-specific projects illustrate the diverse assistance provided across economic planning, statistics, and institutional development.