Removing the blinders: Transitioning NAFAKA II to an evidence-based project.

The ability to design impactful interventions and make adaptive decisions during implementation requires a solid technical evidence base and an inquisitive implementation process. The Feed the Future Tanzania NAFAKA II (i.e. NAFAKA) program has recently undergone a shift to advance these goals, embedding more research around program interventions that allow all staff to operate with more than Performance Management Plan (PMP) indicators and observational findings, and reinforce an analytical culture.

This case study explores how our program has embedded academic research into ongoing implementation-level studies in order to “remove the blinders” that can limit effective implementation.  This approach supports the program in 1) adaptive management for enhanced impact; and 2) further developing NAFAKA staff to expand skillsets for personal growth, industry leadership, and team culture.