A Notch Above: Streamlining Capacity Building for M&E in Kenya

Author(s): MEASURE Evaluation PIMA

Year: 2017

Abstract:

MEASURE Evaluation PIMA (MEval-PIMA) was funded in 2012 by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) in Kenya to support the Ministry of Health (MOH) to strengthen the capacity of health officials at the national and county levels for the monitoring and evaluation (M&E) of health programs and for making better use of health data for decision making. The project’s strategic approach stressed integration and a systemwide perspective to reduce duplication of effort and to reach all levels of data collectors and users. A baseline assessment provided a powerful and effective platform for preliminary engagement and joint planning with partners. The project used the findings to design stakeholder engagement plans and to prioritize interventions to create more efficient use of resources and a faster-paced implementation process.

MEval-PIMA established a common language and standard definitions, reliable and scientific measures of capacity at baseline and end line, and capacity-building work plans. This foundation helped the project address ownership of M&E improvements, build stakeholder buy-in, and demonstrate that important gains can be made with a sustained and rational approach to capacity building.