Effect of Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) Practices on Performance of Health Funded Projects in Rwanda: A Case of Malaria Control, Maternal & Child Health Programs of Ministry of Health

Abstract

The study assessed the effect of Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) practices on performance of health funded projects in Rwanda: a case of Malaria control, Maternal & Child Health programs in Ministry of Health.  It had three specific objectives: to assess the effect of M&E planning on project performance, to examine the influence of M&E data collection and analysis, and to evaluate the impact of M&E reporting and decision making. The hypotheses associated with each of these objectives were supported by the research findings, indicating significant effects in each area. This study used a descriptive survey and correlative research designs, and also the mixed approaches including qualitative and quantitative approaches. The population was 137 people working with Malaria control, Maternal & Child Health programs in Ministry of Health in Rwanda. The study used stratified and universal sampling techniques to select all 137 respondents as sample size. Data-collection instruments were testing questionnaires, interview schedules or guides, rating scales, and survey plans or any other forms which were used to collect information on substantially identical items or more respondents. The observation was done on situation success of health project management and M&E practices. Documentary technique was used by the researcher to obtain secondary information such as reports of Malaria control, Maternal & Child Health programs in Ministry of Health in Rwanda. The models showed a strong positive relationship between M&E planning, data collection and analysis, reporting, and decision making and project performance. This relationship was supported by a high correlation coefficient (R), with approximately 83.2% of the variance in project performance explained by these predictors. However, the presence of potential autocorrelation in the residuals suggests that further investigation is needed to ensure the validity of the model. In conclusion, the study effectively supported all three research hypotheses, confirming the significant impact of M&E planning, data collection and analysis, and reporting and decision making on the performance of Malaria control and Maternal & Child Health programs within the Ministry of Health. The Ministry of Health should invest in comprehensive M&E planning, setting clear objectives, defining indicators, and establishing a solid framework for improved performance. Timely and informative reporting of M&E results is crucial. The Ministry should prioritize the communication of results to facilitate data-informed decision-making.