Localizing MERL in Burundi, Colombia, and Malawi (English Audio)

On July 17, 2024, D4I hosted the fifth and final webinar in a series on localization in monitoring, evaluation, research, and learning (MERL). The panel discussion included local research organizations and individuals from Burundi, Colombia, and Malawi. The webinar was conducted in English and French and included interpretation.

Localizing MERL helps ensure that local actors have the resources and capacity needed for equitable, evidence-informed decision making. Applications of this in MERL activities include local capacity strengthening, using a systems lens, engaging with diverse actors, and implementing other good practices for locally led development. This webinar series shared tools and approaches for effective capacity action planning, monitoring sustainability including local actors’ roles in complex program systems, promoting local voices through social accountability methods, and more. 

The fifth webinar in this series featured panelists from Burundi, Colombia, and Malawi who have engaged with D4I on MERL work in various contexts. D4I’s objective is to strengthen capacity for rigorous evaluation with an approach to partnering with organizations guided by the seven principles of USAID’s Local Capacity Strengthening (LCS) Policy. During this webinar, panelists discussed challenges and opportunities that arise in MERL partnerships and reflected on experiences of translating LCS principles into practice.