The Role of Monitoring and Evaluation on Performance of Health Projects: A Case of the University Teaching Hospitals - Adult

Abstract

The primary objective of this study was to examine the role of monitoring and evaluation on performance of health projects at the University Teaching Hospitals Adult. In Zambia, inadequate funding for monitoring and evaluation activities has significantly impacted performance and completion of health projects. Despite the importance of monitoring and evaluation, many projects remain incomplete due to inadequate planning, inadequate funding and untimely funding. This study addresses this gap by examining the current state of monitoring and evaluation on performance of health projects. The study was guided by three specific objectives and grounded in the results-based management theory, resource allocation theory, and theory of change. The study employed a mixed-methods approach and used concurrent triangulation research design to analyse qualitative and quantitative data simultaneously. The study found that 89.5% emphasized that planning for M&E positively impacts project performance. Furthermore, 92.6% indicated that lack of planning for M&E leads to poor project outcomes. Notably, 87.3% emphasised the need for adequate funding and 96.9% emphasized the need to involve M&E staff in budget preparation. Additionally, 90.5% highlighted the importance of timely funding. The findings also underscored 87.4% indicating that a comprehensive M&E framework is essential for project performance. the significance of regularly reviewing the M&E framework, with 90.5% agreeing that M&E should be reviewed regularly throughout the project. The data instrument demonstrated excellent reliability, with a coefficient of 0.903. The study concluded that adequate resource allocation, timely funding, integration of M&E in projects and a comprehensive M&E framework significantly influence the performance of health projects. Based on these findings, the study recommends a comprehensive framework, fostering stakeholder engagement, financial management, regular data reviews and prioritising technical skills development for enhancing performance of health projects. This research contributes to the body of knowledge by providing empirical evidence on the role of monitoring and evaluation in improving project outcomes. Keywords: Monitoring and evaluation, performance, health projects and framework Development