The Poverty Impact Monitoring (PIM) Programme was initiated in May 2001, at the inception of CEPA, and inherited the content base of the Poverty Impact Monitoring Unit (PIMU). The programme has developed into a central element of CEPA’s work, undertaking in-depth conceptual development as well as providing a service much in demand from clients. The Programme is now entering a new phase which will reflect the maturity reached through five years of intense engagement with the subject.
From inception to April 2005, the programme was sponsored by PIMU/GTZ. The very high demand for the work carried out by PIM has enabled it to develop a level of sustainability independent of programme funding. However, the programme needs to retain a level of independence from market demands and create space for pursing the programme's strategic direction, therefore it will continue to seek funding for separate, longer term programme work.
Rationale
The rationale for the programme is that which lies at the heart of most development intervention: contributing to positive change. Given that poverty reduction is the overarching goal of most state, and non-state, development policy and interventions, monitoring the actual impact of projects on beneficiaries is vital. This is not simply a validation exercise, but also increases the likelihood of projects achieving their intended aims. Impact-oriented information is needed at all levels of policy and implementation; from macro policy for national programmes, to village level interventions.
Conceptual Approach
The main thrust of the PIM Programme during its initial phase was to adapt and develop methodologies to assess impact and carry out assessments of development interventions. In its second phase, the programme continues to build on this sound conceptual and practical base, but seeks to expand the space within which its expertise will be offered. The programme's commitment to adapting and developing methodologies will continue with further development of the team's qualitative skills as well as a gradual increase in the use of quantitative techniques.
Objectives
The programme aims to ensure that development interventions and policies are better oriented to the needs of the poor. To achieve this goal, the programme aims to:
- Increase understanding of frame conditions and drivers of change in poverty at all levels
- Maximise positive impacts/minimise negative impacts of poverty related interventions
- Strengthen the capacity of policy makers and development practitioners to be able to orient their work towards the needs of the poor
- Contribute to national and international debate on poverty impacts, adapt and develop approaches and methodologies for monitoring impacts on poverty
