Global Fund HIV Programme Evaluation in Namibia

Name of client: The Global Fund

Detailed description of project:

EHG was contracted by the Global Fund to carry out an evaluation of the HIV Programme in Namibia under two grants awarded to the Ministry of Health and Social Services (MOHSS) and the Namibian Network of AIDS Service Organisations (NANASO). The evaluation covered the full period of Round 2 and the on-going Rolling Continuation Channel up to December 2011. The overall purpose of the assignment was to assess effectiveness, equity, impact and sustainability of Global Fund investments in HIV (including HIV/TB) programme. The specific goals were to :

• Identify gaps in service delivery and opportunities for enhancing continuum of care for those infected by HIV;
• Assess the impact of the national HIV/AIDS programme on behavioural and disease indicators at population level;
• Assess the efficiency of Global Fund investments in the national HIV/AIDS programme.

The evaluation aimed to determine facilitators and barriers in programme implementation and to analyse changes in coverage, access, use, equity and quality of services; and in behavioural indicators and health status over time. It also attempted to determine the contribution of the Global Fund in comparison to the support provided by the Namibian government and other major partners to achieve the overall objectives of the National Strategic Framework.

The evaluation used a mixed-method approach and triangulation of data sources. Qualitative data were collected and used to aid interpretation and to elaborate the processes that underlie the quantitative outcomes. The methodology consisted of a desk review of key documents and existing data sources, semi-structured interviews, client exit interviews and focus group discussions. An analysis of input, output, outcome, and impact data was conducted and supplemented with information from programme managers and staff at central, regional and service delivery levels as well as from service users. Select health facilities and community-based organisations were visited in the Caprivi, Khomas, Kavango and Oshana Regions.