Research & Evaluation
Generating evidence, tracking trends, and continuously improving our interventions to advance women's political participation in Zimbabwe
Evidence-Based Advocacy
Monitoring and evaluating our engagements and those of women in political engagement in Zimbabwe is a critical aspect of our work. It guides lessons learnt, identifies what works and what doesn't work, and provides essential information on political and policy trends that impact women's representation and participation.
Through rigorous quantitative and qualitative analysis, we ensure that WiPSU continuously remodels its programmes as it goes through learning, responding adaptively to the changing context in which we operate. This evidence-based approach ensures our interventions remain relevant, effective, and impactful.
Our Research Philosophy
We believe that sustainable change is driven by evidence. By systematically tracking, analyzing, and learning from our work and the broader political environment, we ensure that our interventions are strategic, responsive, and impactful.
Monitoring & Evaluation
Systematic tracking and assessment of our engagements to measure impact, capture learning, and drive continuous improvement
What We Monitor
Our M&E framework tracks both our organizational engagements and women's political participation across Zimbabwe. We systematically collect and analyze data on:
- Number of women trained and mentored through our programmes
- Women successfully elected or appointed to political office
- Policy changes influenced by our advocacy efforts
- Effectiveness of different programme approaches
- Barriers and enablers of women's political participation
How We Evaluate
Our evaluation approach combines multiple methodologies to capture both quantitative outcomes and qualitative insights:
- Pre- and post-training assessments to measure knowledge gains
- Longitudinal tracking of programme participants
- Focus group discussions and key informant interviews
- Case studies and success story documentation
- Regular participatory reflection sessions with stakeholders
Research & Analysis
Generating evidence to understand political trends, policy impacts, and what works for women's political participation
Political Trend Analysis
Our research tracks and analyzes political and policy trends that impact women's representation and participation in Zimbabwe. We examine:
- Electoral outcomes and women's representation trends
- Political party nomination processes and gender dynamics
- Legislative developments affecting women's rights
- Socio-economic factors influencing political participation
What Works Research
We rigorously evaluate programme effectiveness to identify successful approaches and areas requiring adaptation:
- Comparative analysis of different training methodologies
- Mentorship programme impact assessments
- Effectiveness of advocacy strategies and campaigns
- Barrier analysis and solution identification
Research Outputs & Publications
Research Reports
In-depth studies on women's political participation
Policy Briefs
Evidence-based recommendations for policymakers
Fact Sheets
Quick reference guides on key issues
Adaptive Programming Through Learning
The insights generated through our monitoring, evaluation, and research directly inform programme adaptation. WiPSU continuously remodels its programmes as it goes through learning, responding adaptively to the changing context in which it exists.
This adaptive approach ensures that our interventions remain relevant, effective, and responsive to the evolving needs of women in politics across Zimbabwe. We regularly convene learning sessions with stakeholders to review findings, discuss implications, and co-design programme improvements.
Monitor → Evaluate → Learn → Adapt → Monitor
The Value of Evidence
Accountability
Evidence-based reporting to donors, stakeholders, and the communities we serve
Influence
Credible evidence strengthens advocacy and policy influence
Sustainability
Learning ensures programmes remain effective and resources are well utilized
Access Our Research
Explore our publications, research reports, and evaluation findings