Practices, Challenges, And Prospects Of Participatory Monitoring And Evaluation In Development Projects: The Case Of World Vision Ethiopia Spir I Project

Abstract

The objective of this study was assessment of practices, challenges and prospects of Participatory Monitoring and Evaluation (PME) approach used in Strengthening PSNP Institutions and Resilience (SPIR I) project implementation in the study area. Descriptive research design was used based on the objectives of the study. Mixed research approach was employed to collect both quantitative and qualitative data simultaneously by using combination of data collection methods. The target population of this study comprised SPIR I project beneficiary households residing in the study area. Total of 120 sample households were randomly selected for the formal survey. KII, FGD and field observation were also used in data collection process. Descriptive statistics was used to run data analysis. The findings showed two categories of PME practices were used in SPIR I project design and implementation phases. Preliminary assessment meetings (76%) and stakeholders’ analysis workshops (65%) were conducted during the project design period. Launching workshops (57%), quarterly meetings (92%), supportive supervision (70%), joint monitoring (59%), extraordinary meetings (57%), midterm evaluation (73%) and terminal evaluation (53%) were used during project implementation. Kebele and community level stakeholders were moderately involved in the processes of PME (58%), while high involvement of woreda, zonal and regional level stakeholders was experienced (30%). The findings also revealed that 83% of sample respondents confirmed that the PME approach employed was of participatory. The majority of project stakeholders participated in cooperating and providing feedback on voluntary bases. Scarce financial and logistic resources (81%), lack of commitment of stakeholders (64%), deficiency of expertise to effectively monitor and evaluate project implementation (55%), lack of adequate baseline information (46%) and group dominance and biasedness (38%) were the major challenges constrained the PME. The findings also revealed the prospects of PME as problem solving, accommodation of diverse views and interests, transparency and accountability, strengthening local capacity and sustainability of project outcomes/impacts. Development agencies and local government are expected to strengthen the capacity of local community to enhance their roles in PME systems and boost bargaining and negotiation skills so as to maximize their share and uphold stakes in development interventions.