On June 11-13, 2019 the USAID/Malawi MELS Project, implemented by IBTCI, convened over 40 Malawian M&E practitioners in Lilongwe for an annual learning workshop on the “State of Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning.” The workshop this year had four objectives:

1. Update the Malawian M&E practitioners on the state of Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning (MEL) and USAID expectations to date.  
2. Explore impact evaluations and share experiences in using outcomes for future implementation.
3. Facilitate a discussion on analytical frameworks and share experiences and lessons learned around using data for action.   
4. Come together to create a formal Malawi M&E Community of Practice.

IPA Malawi Country Representative Patrick Baxter presented at an impact evaluation workshop during the event, giving a presentation on the importance of rigorous evaluation and an introduction to randomized evaluations. After the presentation, he also participated in a plenary panel discussing common challenges surrounding impact evaluations and responding to audience questions. 

At the end of the three days, the workshop participants voted on a new name for the community of practice, along with an updated mission statement. From now on the Malawi M&E Community of Practice will be known as “The Kauniuni Forum” with an inclusive mission statement:

To convene Monitoring and Evaluation practitioners across Malawi, and build individual’s and firm’s capacity in the Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning sector.

Going forward The Kauniuni Forum will continue to be resourced by the USAID/Malawi MELS Project and continue to convene all M&E practitioners in Malawi to strengthen the practice and evidence base. More information on The Kauniuni Forum and its future events coming soon.