Volume 4, Number 1

Monitoring and Evaluation Legislation in Zambia – Gap Analysis

  Authors

Kanyamuna Vincent¹, Mulonda Munalula² and Mulele Chitola Sylvia³, ^1,2University of Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia and ³Ministry of General Education, Zambia

  Abstract

This paper contends that a good Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) system is an essential source of information for streamlining and improving development interventions towards maximizing the likelihood of success. Evidence-based M&E can contribute to transformational policy and decision making through the processes of effective and efficient planning and budgeting for any given country or organisation. However, this only remains true if such M&E systems were based on sound legislation. This paper argues that M&E systems are supposed to be build and anchored upon stable and clear legal frameworks. In the absence of a law, systems for M&E face being redundant and un-used. In Zambia, the law that supports the development and strengthening of M&E has been found to be weak and if the trend persisted, the country risked failing to address the serious issues of public accountability, feedback and learning from what government does. The methodology used for the paper was investigatory and descriptive, whereby different research methods were employed. Intensive desk review of various sources and resources were consulted and predominantly these being government policy documents; expert publications by internationally acclaimed M&E practitioners; multilateral and bilateral agencies as well as interviews from among key informants within the Zambia – both from among state and non-state institutions. Essentially, the paper used published and unpublished materials including expert oriented feedback from the authorities charged with the responsibility of implementing M&E functions in the country.

  Keywords

Monitoring, Evaluation, M&E Legislation, Whole of Government M&E system