Client: DFID
Country: Sierra Leone
Year: 2009-2010
The ENCISS Programme (Enhancing the Interaction and Interface between Civil Society and the State) is concerned with increasing contact and dialogue between citizens and the state, to strengthen transparency, build accountability of government and bring about change. Triple Line was contracted by DFID to carry out three different evaluation support contracts.
Services provided
An evaluation of ENCISS Phase I and II covering:
- A review of ENCISS’ progress in delivering its outputs and achieving its purpose and goal, encompassing technical performance aspects as well as wider strategic issues of building relations with government and the avoidance of duplication with other development assistance;
- An in-depth examination of progress towards institutional independence for ENCISS through a detailed review of management, systems and direction of change;
- An examination of the functioning of ENCISS’ new M&E system at both district and national levels, assessing the baseline, the quality of data being produced and the abilities of staff to manage and use the information;
- On the basis of the evaluation findings, development of a project memorandum for ENCISS phase III, to retain ENCISS as a project rather than an ongoing institution, to be co-funded by the EU and DFID;
- A strategic evaluation of ENCISS Phase II to assess whether it was on-track to achieve its objectives. The methodologies used in implementation were reviewed and an assessment made of the contribution towards conflict resolution and increased social stability; impact on dynamics of civil society and how this has influenced ENCISS’ ability to deliver its purpose.
Achievements
The first evaluation conducted by Triple Line contributed to the conclusion by DFID that ENCISS would be more effective operating as a project with a finite life and focused goals of achievement, rather than as an ongoing institution. As a result a new project phase was approved with joint funding by the EU.
The strategic evaluation of Phase II confirmed ENCISS’ continuing relevance as a programme in Sierra Leone. It also contributed to the design of Phase III, including key recommendations on improving M&E analysis, systems and staff capacity for the future, raising the profile of ENCISS in Sierra Leone, and its engagement with government.