Momentum conducted a comprehensive evaluation of Mercy Corps’ Humanitarian Assistance Program for Afghan Refugees, covering a wide range of interventions implemented from 2013 to 2016. Our evaluation focused on assessing the program’s effectiveness across health, vocational training, apprenticeship, and entrepreneurship programs.

Key Activities:

1. Evaluation Design: We developed a comprehensive evaluation framework tailored to Mercy Corps’ specific needs and aligned with global evaluation standards. The evaluation encompassed a mixed-methods approach, including desk review, key informant interviews, focus group discussions, field observations, and analysis of project documents and monitoring data.
2. Data Collection: We collected both quantitative and qualitative data from various stakeholders, including beneficiaries, program staff, and government officials. This data was used to assess program outcomes, challenges, and successes.
3. Data Analysis: We analyzed the collected data using appropriate methods to identify trends, patterns, and significant findings. The analysis focused on evaluating the impact of the program on beneficiaries’ livelihoods, health, and well-being.
4. Report Preparation: We prepared a comprehensive evaluation report that addressed the core questions of the evaluation, including:
   • Vocational Training: Employment rates, income changes, sustainability of self-employment, factors affecting unemployment, and stipend usage.
   • Community Midwife Training: Stipends, workstation equipment, training quality, and repatriation status.
   • Training Feasibility: Effectiveness of training in Afghanistan and repatriation status of trained refugees.

Deliverables:

• Evaluation Plan: A detailed evaluation plan outlining the methodology, data collection tools, and analysis approach.
• Inception Report: A preliminary report summarizing the initial findings and analysis.
• Data Set: Complete data set, including questionnaires, transcripts, and other relevant documents.
• Draft and Final Evaluation Reports: Comprehensive reports covering the executive summary, purpose, scope, methodology, findings, analysis, key lessons learned, recommendations, and annexures.

Impact and Significance:
Our evaluation provided Mercy Corps with valuable insights into the effectiveness of their humanitarian assistance program for Afghan refugees. The findings informed decision-making, identified areas for improvement, and contributed to the program’s ongoing efforts to support vulnerable populations.