Article,
Monitoring and Evaluation Legislation in Zambia – Gap Analysis
International Journal of Humanities, Art and Social Studies (IJHAS), 4 (1): 15-25 (February 2019)
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used published and unpublished materials including expert oriented feedback from the authorities charged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.
