Monitoring and Evaluation Frameworks as Project Management Tools : A Documentary Comparison of Donor Standards Relevant to Central African Projects.

Abstract:

Monitoring and evaluation (M&E) systems are essential for management, accountability, and learning in development projects. In the forest environment sector in Central Africa, they are strongly shaped by donor norms and international standards, raising challenges of coherence, harmonization, and governance. This study offers a comparative analysis of the M&E frameworks and mechanisms used by major donors operating in the region. Drawing on a structured literature review following the principles of the Collaboration for Environmental Evidence, it examines donor guidelines, evaluation manuals, and standards (OECD DAC, UNEG, European Commission). The findings highlight strong convergence in results frameworks, indicators, and reporting requirements, but also notable differences in procedures, flexibility, and accountability demands. These variations affect planning, stakeholder coordination, accountability practices, and adaptive management. The study provides operational guidance to project managers, implementing agencies, and donors to strengthen the effectiveness and coherence of M&E systems in complex institutional contexts.