May 13, 2024, Nairobi, Kenya: In substantial progress towards strengthening resilience and development efforts across the IGAD region, the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) has commenced a comprehensive Result-Based Management (RBM) training program. This initiative falls under the Strengthening Coordination and Implementation of the IGAD Drought Disaster Resilience and Sustainability Initiative (SCII) project.
Implemented across all seven member states, the RBM training aims to enhance the monitoring and evaluation (M&E) capacity of experts involved in Community Pastoralist Programmes (CPPs) within National Development Plans. By identifying key indicators and integrating them into the IDDRSI Result frameworks, IGAD aims to streamline data collection processes at both regional and country levels.
One pivotal foundation for this initiative was the establishment of National Experts Panels (NEP) in all member states, comprising representatives from various ministries and agencies. These panels, which have grown to 186 members, serve as expert groups, ensuring diverse representation across priority intervention areas.
Recognising the need for strengthened M&E practices, IGAD conducted capacity assessments before launching the RBM training. These assessments revealed gaps in planning, designing, and implementing surveys, as well as in data analysis and report writing. A four-day training program focusing on survey methodology has been devised to address these shortcomings.
The training objective was to equip M&E experts with the necessary skills and knowledge to effectively design, implement, and analyse surveys. The training aims to achieve several key objectives, including capacity building, ensuring quality data collection, improving monitoring and evaluation practices, and ultimately enhancing regional project effectiveness.
Expected outcomes of the training included an improved understanding of research and survey methodology principles, enhanced skills in designing surveys, and increased ability to analyse and interpret survey data. Targeting M&E experts responsible for CPPs from each member state, the training covered essential aspects of social science research and scientific report writing.
The training, which utilised an experiential learning approach, incorporated presentations, case studies, group discussions, and practical exercises. Participants had the opportunity to apply learned concepts to real-world scenarios, ensuring a hands-on and participatory training experience. With the RBM training, IGAD reaffirms its commitment to advancing resilience and sustainable development across the IGAD region. As M&E experts gain proficiency in survey methodology, the stage is set for more informed decision-making and enhanced project outcomes to pursue a resilient future.
