MERL Tech DC 2019

In this talk, we will present Integrity's work to implement ‘Aqoonta’, a web-based platform for DFID’s Learning and Monitoring Program – Somalia (LAMPS, 2016-2020). The LAMPS program verifies DFID Somalia’s Governance, Health, and Economic Development portfolios to improve DFID’s understanding of how the activities it funds are performing, the challenges faced, and ways to identify, mitigate and learn from risks affecting programming. Integrity and partners developed Aqoonta (Somali for “knowledge”) – as a space where DFID and partners interact with concise, visual LAMPS reports, photographs, management dashboards and learning resources. Aqoonta is a vehicle through which DFID and its implementing partners can learn from and improve their delivery. This talk will outline lessons learned through all stages of Aqoonta’s life, challenges during the process. Participants will gain an understanding of how even in challenging contexts such as Somalia, digital solutions can support efficient processes in monitoring, evaluation, and learning provided they follow an agile methodology and are grounded in a strong understanding of users, context, and needs.