Mid-Term Review of the Social Protection Sector Strategic Plan

The main aim of the Social Protection Sector Strategic Plan (SP-SSP) Mid-Term Review is to assess progress made in relation to achieving

the targets set out in the strategic plan and those embedded in the National Strategy for Transformation (NST1) high-level targets so far, as well as to identify lessons to inform subsequent planning and implementation.

This review exercise aims to assess progress made to date from the baseline, identify the key gaps and lessons learned in the implementation of the SPSSP implementation as the basis for proposed improvements/adjustments to achieve the objectives of NST1, make full use of the relevant past and ongoing review exercise in an effective manner.

The specific objectives of the assignment are:

  • To assess progress in delivering the strategic objectives and priority areas of the SP-SSP in articulation with NST1, including the extent to which targets set in the SP-SSP are being met, on track or delayed across all its key components (Effectiveness).
  • To assess whether identified SP-SSP priorities are still aligned to national and global goals and respond to emerging needs (Relevance).
  • To assess whether the resources allocated for the implementation of SP-SSP were available, sufficient and used efficiently (Efficiency).
  • To assess if the achieved results will be sustained by SP Sector (Sustainability).
  • To identify challenges and lessons learnt and formulate recommendations to any adjustments required and improve the overall implementation of SP-SSP.

The mid-term review would also seek to explore the following detailed areas;

  • Analyze the extent to which the SP-SSP has delivered the outputs and outcomes set out in the SP-SSP Action Plan and identify the key challenges, inhibitors and blockages which have affected the achievement of results; and analyze the extent to which risks were managed with effective controls and mitigating strategies (including in the context of COVID-19)
  • Assess the status of different reforms, the performance of key programmes up to early 2022, and achievements since the launch of the SP-SSP.
  • Evaluate the M&E and results in the framework of the SP-SSP including the adequacy of the results framework, the strength of logical linkages/causal pathway between outputs and outcomes and policy actions and targets, availability and strength of monitoring data, and linkages between strategies at different levels including decentralized levels among others.
  • Review existing routine monitoring and M&E data stored at the central and local government levels. Comment on the accuracy of such routine monitoring and M&E data and how they effectively capture the progress against the SP-SSP.
  • Assess the institutional framework for delivering on the SP-SSP. This will include the identification of strengths, weaknesses, and lessons learned so far.
  • Assess the financing of the NST1 via a vis the initial expectations by documenting resources mobilized, challenges encountered and the likely impact on the results achieved to date. The assessment should capture emerging issues such as the COVID-19 pandemic and the changing resource mobilization landscape. Review the resources for the results achieved, including; Availability/adequacy of financing from domestic and external sources and fiscal space and value for money in the achievement of any results.
  • Document the gender equality, disability and social inclusion issues in the Sector Strategic Plan, taking into consideration ongoing analytical works on these issues.
  • Propose an amended or revised SP-SSP based on the analysis including a revised (actionable) results framework, adapted targets and high-level costing.