Assessment of National Monitoring and Evaluation System for National Aids Control Council Kenya

Abstract

Monitoring and evaluation (M&E) systems have evolved over time as important tools that can enhance management of programmes and thus facilitate measurement of progress on project implementation. This has raised interest among researchers who have noted on the importance to assess M&E system so as enhance efficiency the systems. In this regard, an assessment was carried out on NACC HIV monitoring and evaluation (M&E) system so as to determine the extent to which the system meet the expected standards, as it reports on national indicators of HIV/AIDS in Kenya. The assessment used a descriptive case study design. Mixed methods approach (quantitative and qualitative) was used for data collection and analysis. Data was collected through documents reviews, key informants interviews, self-assessments questionnaire with 21 staff (purposively selected) who support the main system and sub systems, from NACC, NASCOP and Ministry of Health. The three regions were selected because they manage M&E systems and sub systems that collect data that inform on implementation of HIV and AIDS programmes in Kenya. The results from the assessment indicate that there is a functional M&E system at NACC supported by sub systems at NASCOP and Ministry of Health and other levels. Existence of uniform data collection tools and IT equipment to run district health information software were noted as some of the strengths within the system. On the other hand, inadequate staffing at NACC and NASCOP were noted as the main challenge which affects performance of the system. The issue of funding was widely cited as main reason why most activities for example data audits were not conducted and in this regard, funding for monitoring and evaluation unit was seen to below minimum international recommendations of 10%. This study feels that if more personnel are employed at the national level within NACC and NASCOP, it will go a long way in improving functionality of NACC HIV M&E system. Key recommendation made for this assessment is that amount of money allocated to NACC and M&E units should be increased to allow for all planned activities within the organization and department take place. Finally a more inclusive assessment should be conducted involving various stakeholders with national representation to have a better and deeper understanding of functionality of NACC HIV M&E system functions