MONITORING AND EVALUATION:Biteko calls for professionalism
ZANZIBAR: DEPUTY Prime Minister and Minister for Energy, Dr Doto Biteko, has issued key directives aimed at enhancing monitoring, evaluation and learning practices in the country, calling on institutions to improve professionalism also strengthen operations for better public service delivery.
Speaking at the third Tanzania Monitoring, Evaluation and Learning Conference in Zanzibar, yesterday Dr Biteko called for the swift completion of a national monitoring and evaluation system, ensuring government performance reports are easily accessible.
He urged planning commissions to thoroughly analyse government projects and present annual reports, enabling the government to assess the impact and efficiency of approved projects.
Dr Biteko also directed the government to finalise
the National Monitoring and Evaluation Policy to standardise monitoring and evaluation practices across the nation.
He called for institutions like Tanzania Evaluation Association (TanEA) to develop strategies for financial sustainability, empowering them to effectively fulfil their roles.
The Minister further said it is crucial to review monitoring and evaluation policies and strategies every three years to track progress, address challenges and make necessary improvements.
In his speech, Dr Biteko said there is a need to protect the integrity of the monitoring and evaluation profession, urging experts to actively champion the recognition of their contributions within their respective institutions.
He acknowledged that some institutional leaders may resist monitoring and evaluation efforts but encourage “It is essential to show your value to the organisation.
Giving in to resistance will only undermine your role.
Stand firm and assert your importance,” he said.
Dr Biteko highlighted the importance of maintaining truth and professionalism in the field, noting that the creation of evaluation units within the government follows President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s directives to monitor project funding and assess its impact on improving people’s lives.
Minister of State, Prime Minister’s Office, Policy, Parliament and Coordination, William Lukuvi commended the high participation at the conference, noting that the event highlighted the government’s focus on delivering quality services to citizens in a timely manner.
He said that the participants were encouraged to use their skills to help the government in planning and project implementation.
Mr Lukuvi further noted that President Samia and Zanzibar President, Dr Hussein Ali Mwinyi, have been strong advocates for monitoring and evaluation in government performance and service delivery, reinforcing the importance of the practices.
The Permanent Secretary of the Prime Minister’s Office, Policy, Parliament and Coordination, Dr Jim Yonazi, on his part said it was crucial for everyone to participate in the monitoring and evaluation process to enhance transparency and accountability.
He pointed out that using technology and accurate data would play a vital role in decision-making and improving public services.
“This conference underscored the crucial role of citizen participation in the monitoring and evaluation process, enhancing transparency and accountability and ensuring both the government and donors provide effective services.
Moreover, involving citizens will help guarantee that development projects directly benefit them,” said Dr Yonazi.
Acting Executive Secretary of the Planning Commission, Dr Ameir Haji Sheha, acknowledged the contributions made during the conference, which attracted over 700 participants.
He thanked the Prime Minister’s Office for its cooperation in making the event successful.
