Learning from Crisis: hera's Evaluation of UNICEF's L2 Response to the Uganda Ebola Crisis
When the Ebola crisis was declared over on January 11, 2023, in Uganda, it marked the end of a harrowing period that witnessed 142 confirmed cases and 55 deaths. In adherence to its 2018 Evaluation Policy, UNICEF mandated an evaluation of their Level 2 (L2) emergency response and selected a hera team for this critical task. The evaluation had a dual aim: to promote learning and long-term planning for future public health emergencies and to strengthen accountability to affected populations, partners, and donors. The hera team was entrusted with a comprehensive review of UNICEF's multi-sectoral initiatives, ranging from institutional roles to operational effectiveness. Moreover, the evaluation was designed to capture not just UNICEF's immediate actions but also the transition into their regular country programming after the crisis.
Utilising a rigorous methodology, the hera team incorporated a mixed-methods approach in the evaluation. This included a desk review of relevant documents, key informant interviews, and focus group discussions. A mobile phone-based Community Rapid Assessment further enriched the data, providing insights into community perceptions and knowledge about Ebola. All these data sources were triangulated to ensure robust and reliable findings. Ethical clearance was obtained, and the evaluation adhered to principles such as informed consent, voluntary participation, confidentiality, data protection, and 'do no harm,' thereby underscoring the integrity of the process.
The hera team's in-depth analysis provided a nuanced view of UNICEF's efforts across multiple sectors, including health, WASH, nutrition, education, and child protection. The evaluation scrutinised the efficiency and effectiveness of resource mobilisation, especially given the rapid spread of the disease to Kampala. Special emphasis was placed on UNICEF's level of preparedness and adaptability, as well as how their response catered to vulnerable groups like children, adolescents, and women. Key lessons and recommendations emerged from the evaluation, aimed at informing UNICEF Uganda's transition from emergency response to long-term strategies. These strategies ensure a humanitarian-development-peace nexus and preparedness for future public health emergencies.
Deep gratitude is extended to all participants, UNICEF, and stakeholders who contributed to making the evaluation a meaningful endeavour in the ongoing effort to improve public health outcomes. Conducted shortly after the official end of the Ebola outbreak, the evaluation allowed for a nuanced understanding of both the crisis response and the transition into UNICEF's regular country programming. In a world where public health crises can emerge without warning, the importance of comprehensive evaluations like this cannot be overstated. hera- right to health and development remains committed to shaping effective and accountable health strategies and looks forward to continuing work in this vital area, contributing to a world where the right to health and development is a reality for all.
For more insights, read the Learning Brief here or access the full report on the UNICEF website (https://www.unicef.org/evaluation/reports#/detail/19212/evaluation-of-the-unicef-uganda-preparedness-and-response-to-the-l2-ebola-emergency).