Malawi Watsan Documentation

Background

Focus of this Evaluation is on WASHE Program that was implemented in 2002 following a pilot project on selected CHAM health units, a community and school.

Purpose/objective

A pilot project with specific goal of helping to set up similar programs in other countries.

Methodology

The consultant used different methods to collect information. Some of which was through project documents, progress reports, discussions with committee members and selected communities at selected areas, discussions with NCA, CHAM and EAM project coordinators, ICL as consultants and Site visits to selected health units.

Key findings

1. Composition of village committees very important and emphasis should be on more women in the committees for empowerment.
2. Position of Treasurer in the committees is best handled a woman.
3. Community based management (CBM) require much follow-up.
4. Community involvement in planning and decision making a must for ownership and sustainability.
5. Community ownership of installation still a big challenge.
6. Involvement of local Churches and communities in general is a good strategy for
community activities like Water & Sanitation.
7. Lack of interest by proprietors in the Water & Sanitation Project.
8. Capacity building and transfer of skill required for CHAM / NCA to shoulder more
responsibility on water issues than the Consultant.
9. Committees not very committed to practice what they learn during trainings
especially on income generating activities for maintenance of installations.

Recommendations

1. More time should be allocated for good planning, proper & thorough assessment
2. Stakeholders should work together in all stages of project management cycle with clear roles and responsibilities.
3. Issues of community ownership and sustainability should be discussed early in the programme.
4. Use of appropriate technology, participatory methods of training with aim of transfer of skills.
5. Inclusion of health centres and district structures should be involved in monitoring of activities.

Comments from the organisation

1. We agree with the Consultants's findings and that they are not new. We experience them all the time when we monitor the program and we are doing something about them.
2. We are already working on the Consultant's recommendations.