This document describes an innovative approach to strengthening governance in fragile states by providing methodological support to governments' policy planning systems, specifically their Poverty Reduction Strategy Paper (PRSP) development and monitoring/evaluation processes. The support is provided by an international consultant who facilitates the process and trains national staff, without involvement in substantive policy issues. This builds national capacity and ownership over time. In contrast to traditional technical assistance, this hands-on approach respects country autonomy while effectively building long-lasting planning skills among government planners.