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Day 3: TGNP – Transformative Feminist Monitoring, Evaluation and Learning
Hosts: Dr. Rasel Mpuya Madaha, Anna Sangai, Asteria Katunzi
The purpose of the session was to learn about transformative feminist monitoring, evaluation and learning (TFMEL). The term is based on the understanding that discrimination based on gender identity is structural and systemic, and that social justice can be achieved only with changes in power relations. Feminist and gender struggles are also context specific to the many different communities and cultures in Tanzania. Using gender and power lenses, TFMEL values participation of beneficiaries at all stages of projects, from planning through to evaluation. Projects are developed and implemented in collaboration with, not for, communities. Participation in planning, implementation, monitoring and evaluation stages of projects, based on feminist principles, ensures inclusion of the voices of women and marginalized groups.
TGNP introduced the 12-step Intensive Movement Building Cycle (IMBC) tool, designed to strengthen the transformative feminist movement at the grassroots level. Every step of the process is participatory to ensure communities participate and have a voice.
Overall, participants of the session believed that they apply feminist principles to monitoring, evaluation and learning (MEL) in their own contexts, and cited examples. They also agreed that everyone is working with a feminist lens, though it is not often acknowledged.
DEEPENING GENDER LEARNING
In the discussions, emphasis was placed on increasing women’s participation in projects in ways that are empowering. Even when spaces are reserved for women’s participation, barriers persist for them to take on those roles. It is not just about the women in the room—how empowered are they to have a say and have influence? Oppressive structures undermine citizenship. TGNP’s approach is to ensure women are part of the MEL process from the outset to have a say in the indicators. All the tools are participatory as feminism has been mainstreamed through all steps. Key to feminist movement building is the empowerment of communities to act, identify potential partners, and connect with other transformative feminist practices.
NEW QUESTIONS TO EXPLORE
Much adaptation has been done by TGNP for the multitudes of cultures and communities in Tanzania. How can we learn more about designing and learning from tools in the even more diverse contexts of the Engage partners. How do we address the barriers that affect design and implementation? Make sure what you measure is inclusive. Don’t leave others behind. Anna
