Assessing the influence of monitoring practices on data use in decision-making at public health organizations; A case study of Zamzam Foundation, Somalia.

Abstract

Introduction: Monitoring and evaluation is at the center of sound governance arrangements globally, regionally, nationally and locally as well. It is necessary for the achievement of evidence-based decision-making, budget decisions, management, and accountability. However, there is limited focus on routine program monitoring data-related practices and utilization for decision-making among NGOs in Somalia. Zamzam foundation is one of the biggest NGOs that works in the country and implements successful projects, however; public health problems such as lack of access to clean water, malnutrition and food insecurity persist. Zamzam foundation are affected by low data quality, inadequate resources, weak institutional capacity, and lack of baseline survey. Objective: This study was aimed to assess the influence of monitoring practices on data use in decision-making at public health organizations; a case study of Zamzam foundation, Somalia. Methods: A case study design was chosen and qualitative methods of data collection were adopted in order to describe how the organization implemented its programs using a key informant interview guide. The sample size of the study was 14 participants that included M&E managers, M&E staff, project managers, and data managers. After cleaning, the data was analysed manually using thematic analysis. Results: Data related practices are mainly managed by M&E personnel that handle the data monitoring practices. The findings showed that a significant portion of decision makers in the organization such as donors and other stakeholders receive reports based on decision-making evidences such as budget impacts as evidence. The main facilitators of data for decision making include capacity of M&E and data management. Main barriers include ineffective supervision, inadequate funding, and lack enough training for capacity building. Conclusion: Data related practices are mainly understood as a process or series of processes involving data management and information, but training sessions should be conducted to improve the staff’s understanding of the concepts of data management and decision-making. M&E capacity and budgetary allocation for the all tasks are a crucial determinant of and affect program sustainability. Zamzam should plan strategies to engage stakeholders and improve going forward.