SADC Resource Mobilisation Strategy 4 PILLAR 1: PLANNING, BUDGETING, MONITORING AND EVALUATION The SADC Secretariat is responsible for the development of a coherent and harmonised resource mobilisation strategy based on i) SADC Strategy Development, Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation (SPME) and Medium Term Strategy priorities as determined by Council; ii) decisions taken by the Secretariat Executive Management; and iii) the operational plans developed by the technical Directorates for giving effect to the strategic priorities. The Secretariat is also responsible for the implementation, monitoring and evaluation of the resource mobilisation strategy according to the principles outlined in the SADC SPME. The SADC Secretariat shall refine its strategy review process, strengthen its planning, budgeting and financial management systems in a manner that maximises the resource absorptive capacity and optimally utilise resources for its development programmes. The SADC Secretariat will also put in place appropriate rules and procedures that will apply standards offering guarantees’ equivalent to internationally accepted standards and promote ownership in implementing the SADC Common Agenda at regional and national levels. A Programme approach, based on the RISDP and SIPO and SADC Sector and Corporate Plans, will be the basis of the cooperation with the International Cooperating Partners. Prior to the allocation of resources and activities, the International Cooperating Partners will work closely with the SADC Secretariat during the identification and appraisal/formulation cycles and during the implementation and evaluation phases. The Secretariat will provide regular update on the levels of funding to various thematic areas with a view to guiding a more balanced contribution by the ICPs. 4.1 Resource Acquisition, Planning and Management Strategy In the context of the guiding principles, the following specific factors shall guide resource mobilisation and the relations between the SADC Secretariat and 11