Evaluating the impact of monitoring and evaluation on performance in the KwaZulu-Natal Sharks Board.

Abstract

The objective of the study was to determine the impact of monitoring and evaluation on improving public sector performance and enhancing accountability, good governance, efficiency and effectiveness, with a focus on the KwaZulu-Natal Sharks Board public entity. Further, the study was aimed at analysing the challenges of establishing the monitoring and evaluation system in the KwaZulu-Natal Sharks Board. The study also assessed the extent to which employees understand the important role of monitoring and evaluation in the KwaZulu-Natal Sharks Board. A quantitative research approach was adopted and quantitative data collection techniques employed, which included the administering of questionnaires. The respondents comprised of staff of the KwaZulu-Natal Sharks Board. The study targeted 20 participants and all questionnaires were returned, indicating a response rate of 100 per cent. A simple random technique was used to select executive management, middle management, supervisors and staff of KwaZulu-Natal Sharks Board. Quantitative data was analysed using correlation and percentages. The findings revealed that there are high levels of agreement and show that respondents have an understanding of what the monitoring and evaluation is and what they need to do so that positive impact is achieved, which can improve performance and enhance accountability, good governance, efficiency and effectiveness within the KwaZulu-Natal Sharks Board. It was concluded that monitoring and evaluation enhances accountability, management decision, organisational learning and promotes good governance. The study recommended that monitoring and evaluation should not only be structured to insignificant compliance; but should also support and enhance evidence-based decision making. Monitoring and evaluation must be properly institutionalised, resourced, funded and properly located so as to mediate policy processes, planning and service delivery. This will better inform the implementation strategy of monitoring and evaluation in the organisation.