Table 4 Key findings derived from the analysis of interviews

1. Pathways to impact are often indirect, and evidence of long-term outcomes is difficult to obtain

2. Delivering programmes through and with research funding bodies can increase effectiveness and efficiency

3. Partnerships are more effective when equity is built into programme and funding rules

4. Capacity-building is often donor country-focused and happens more indirectly in partner countries

5. Programme priority-setting processes are often top-down and donor-led, but call- and project-level priorities are more flexible and opportunities exist to pursue mutual goals