The year 2024 marked a pivotal milestone for the Monitoring and Evaluation Department of Somalia’s Ministry of National Planning, as it achieved remarkable progress in establishing robust frameworks and systems for effective project oversight across the country. In a comprehensive review, the department highlighted its key accomplishments and the far-reaching impact of its efforts.
One of the most notable achievements was the endorsement of the National Monitoring and Evaluation Policy by the Council of Ministers. This crucial document serves as a guiding framework for monitoring and evaluation activities throughout Somalia, ensuring a standardized and coordinated approach across all sectors and regions.
Furthermore, the department finalized the National Integrated Monitoring and Evaluation System, an automated platform that will be utilized by all government entities, both at the federal and state levels. This system will streamline the monitoring and evaluation processes for all development projects implemented by international organizations, local NGOs, and UN agencies, as well as those funded by the World Bank, African Development Bank, and the Somali government itself.
Recognizing the importance of national evaluation capacities, the department also established the National Evaluation Standard, a comprehensive guideline for evaluating projects and programs. This standard ensures consistent and high-quality evaluations, addressing a long-standing gap in the absence of a standardized government evaluation framework.
In line with the National Monitoring and Evaluation Policy, the department developed regulations and guidelines for private monitoring and evaluation firms operating in Somalia. This move aims to enhance the professionalism and accountability of these firms, ensuring they adhere to established standards and best practices.
To support the implementation of these frameworks, the department conducted extensive training programs, benefiting over 150 professionals working in monitoring and evaluation roles across various ministries and government agencies at both federal and state levels. Additionally, specialized training was provided to the staff and consultants of the Monitoring and Evaluation Department itself, further strengthening their expertise.
The department’s efforts extended beyond Somalia’s borders, as it actively participated in four international conferences focused on monitoring, evaluation, and development. These conferences provided valuable opportunities to strengthen partnerships, exchange knowledge, and position Somalia as a leader in the field among fragile and conflict-affected states.
The achievements of the Monitoring and Evaluation Department in 2024 were not limited to policy and system development. The department also conducted comprehensive reviews of over 102 projects implemented by five major organizations operating in Somalia, including UNICEF, FAO, WFP, and the Somali Resilience Program (SomReP) funded by the World Bank. These reviews highlighted areas for improvement and ensured accountability in the utilization of development resources.
Looking ahead, the department aims to build upon these successes by further strengthening monitoring and evaluation capacities at all levels of government, from federal to state and district levels. The goal is to ensure effective oversight and coordination of development projects, ultimately contributing to Somalia’s progress and sustainable development.
The Somali Ministry of Planning and the Monitoring and Evaluation Department deserve commendation for their unwavering commitment to transparency, accountability, and evidence-based decision-making. Their efforts in 2024 have laid a solid foundation for enhanced project management, efficient resource utilization, and the realization of Somalia’s development aspirations.
