The Rona Vilia Blog
Practical perspectives on project management, evaluation methodology, and development practice in East Africa.
Why Mixed-Methods Evaluation Delivers Better Results for NGO Projects in Uganda
Relying solely on numbers can mask the human story behind a project's outcomes. In our experience evaluating programmes across Uganda and Kenya, mixed-methods approaches — combining quantitative surveys with focused group discussions and key informant interviews — consistently produce richer, more actionable findings. This article explains why, and how to design a mixed-methods evaluation framework your team can realistically implement in the field.
Commission an Evaluation →5 Signs Your NGO Project Needs an Independent Mid-Term Review
Mid-term reviews catch problems early enough to correct course. We outline five warning signs — from slipping indicators to stakeholder disengagement — that signal it's time to bring in an external evaluator.
Project Cycle Management Training: What Works for Faith-Based Organisations
After delivering PCM training for Scalabrini Fathers and Sacred Heart Sisters, we share what facilitation methods resonate most with faith-based teams and how to bridge the pastoral-operational gap.
Building a Safeguarding Policy That Actually Protects: Lessons from the Field
Drawing on our consultancy with Scalabrini Fathers in Adjumani, we explore the participatory process of developing a policy that staff, volunteers, and community members genuinely understand and trust.
How to Facilitate a Strategic Planning Retreat That Produces a Plan Teams Will Use
Too many strategic plans gather dust after the retreat. We share our facilitation methodology developed across assignments with Twezimbe Centre, POWE, and Franciscan Prison Ministry.
Measuring Child Labour Reduction: The Long View on Impact in Busedde Jinja
After four evaluations of CFOU's anti-child-labour programming (2011–2023), we reflect on what longitudinal evaluation teaches about attribution, community change, and tracking complex social outcomes.
From Evaluation Findings to Funding Proposals: Turning Data Into Donor Narratives
Donors want evidence. Evaluation findings, when well-communicated, are the most compelling evidence you have. We walk through how to translate reports into successful funding proposals.
Have a project we can help evaluate?
Our team is ready to design and deliver a rigorous evaluation that generates the insights your organisation needs.
Start the Conversation