The North Africa Cultural Programme is the first cultural programme of its kind delivered by the SDC in North Africa. Phase 1, with a budget of CHF 550,000, ran from December 2018 to March 2022, with a no-cost extension until March 2023. The rationale for the programme is based upon the conviction that culture and the arts can facilitate ‘intercultural dialogue and exchange as a foundation for peace and conflict sensitive development in North Africa and [...] foster artistic expression as a driver of change in support to the challenges of transition.’1 The programme targets youth, emerging artists, and young professionals working in the production, preservation, and distribution of local artistic works. Amidst political turmoil, the programme represented a vital source of support to arts and culture organisations in the region.

Aleph Strategies was commissioned by SDC to conduct an evaluation of the NACP. The evaluation took place between 15th November 2022 and 13th January 2023, with fieldwork in Tunisia, Egypt and Morocco.