Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) Regional Technical Committee

Introduction to the M&E Regional Technical Committee

The Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) Regional Technical Committee, proposed by ESPEN and established under WHO/AFRO, represents a pivotal step in transforming how data for Neglected Tropical Disease (NTD) interventions are managed across the African region. This committee embodies a unified and coordinated approach to M&E, designed to ensure consistent guidance, harmonization, and innovation in global data practices.

As a dedicated and ongoing platform with strong representation from key implementers and stakeholders, the M&E Technical Committee underscores WHO/AFRO’s commitment to strengthening coordination and enhancing the quality and reliability of NTD data. By aligning efforts and improving data management practices, the committee seeks to drive more effective resource allocation and decision-making, ultimately increasing the impact of NTD interventions across the region.

At the heart of the committee's mission is the standardization of M&E tools and processes. With active engagement from major implementers, this initiative addresses the fragmented data practices that hinder NTD responses today. By centralizing efforts in data collection, analysis, and reporting, the M&E Technical Committee fosters a cohesive and impactful strategy to tackle NTDs effectively.

Roles of the M&E Regional Technical Committee

The M&E Regional Technical Committee plays a crucial role in transforming data management and advancing the fight against Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs). As a central platform for collaboration, it ensures alignment, standardization, and strategic direction in monitoring and evaluation (M&E) practices across the African region. The key roles of the committee include:

  1. Providing Strategic Guidance:
    • Offer expert advice and recommendations to harmonize M&E tools and methodologies, ensuring consistency and alignment with global standards.
    • Support countries in adopting best practices to enhance data quality, reliability, and utility for evidence-based decision-making.
  2. Facilitating Stakeholder Collaboration:
    • Serve as a collaborative platform where major implementers, ministries of health, and other stakeholders can align on priorities and strategies.
    • Promote a shared vision for data management that strengthens coordination and reduces fragmentation.
  3. Developing Technical Resources:
    • Lead the creation and dissemination of standardized resources, such as guidelines, frameworks, and blueprints, on critical topics like demographic harmonization and data quality assurance.
    • Ensure these resources are tailored to the needs of countries and are regularly updated to reflect evolving challenges.
  4. Monitoring Progress and Evaluating Impact:
    • Regularly assess the implementation of M&E strategies and provide recommendations to address gaps and challenges.
    • Report annually on the progress, successes, and lessons learned to inform continuous improvement.
  5. Capacity Building and Knowledge Sharing:
    • Organize workshops, training sessions, and knowledge-sharing events to strengthen technical capacity across the region.
    • Promote the adoption of innovative tools and techniques for data collection, analysis, and reporting.
  6. Advancing Harmonized Data Practices:
    • Lead initiatives to integrate NTD data into broader health management information systems, fostering interoperability and accessibility.
    • Support countries in transitioning to harmonized reporting practices to improve regional and global comparability of data.
  7. Championing Accountability and Transparency:
    • Ensure regular reporting on M&E activities and facilitate open discussions on progress, challenges, and strategic directions.
    • Maintain transparency in the development and dissemination of technical resources and data-driven insights.