A Process Evaluation of a Capacity-Building Project for Comprehensive HIV/AIDS Management in Nkonkobe Local Municipality, Eastern Cape Province, South Africa

South Africa has put in place policies to curb the HIV and AIDS pandemic and adopted the multi-sectoral approach to effectively implement the policies and manage the scourge in terms of prevention, treatment, care and support. However, the implementation of the policies has been hampered by lack of human capacity. This article focuses on the results of a process or implementation evaluation of a capacity-building project in the management of HIV and AIDS in one of South Africa's local municipalities. The intention of the researchers were twofold: (1) to provide a picture of important observations about the project in terms of delivery in line with the original plan, reaching targeted population, as well as frequency and adequacy of project activities (2) to draw up lessons that can be used to improve HIV and AIDS policy implementation through projects. Using interviews and corroborating them with, observations and documents, the process evaluation exercise focused on two levels of analysis, that is, the programme staff and their provincial partners, and the project's intended beneficiaries. The results of the evaluation showed a high level of fidelity implementation, reach and dose. The study highlights the lessons learnt in contributing to a co-ordinated and, participatory and vibrant response to HIV and AIDS management. It draws a number of recommendations for future policy and practices based on the project's experience.