The Government of Lesotho, with support from UNDP is in the process of operationalizing a National Monitoring and Evaluation System (NMES). To support the effective functioning of the system, a National Technical Committee has been formed. This committee plays an advisory role and also guides preparation, review and dissemination of performance reports and evaluation findings at all levels of the economy.

The NMES will accompany the MDG based development plans of the the Government of Lesotho by providing timely and accurate information to the decisions makers in terms of progress towards the implementation of the Millennium Development Goals and other related national development goals. This will allow for continuous monitoring and, if required, evidence-based adjustments to existing policies and strategies facilitating the achievement of the MDGs.

This five-day retreat organized to finalise the technical committee’s modalities of operation and build their capacity is a follow-up to the initial meeting constituting the committee in June 2008.

In her closing remarks at the retreat The UN Resident Coordinator a.i. Dr. Angela Benson delivered a statement on behalf of Development Partners. She applauded UNDP the main agency supporting NMES which she felt could not have come at a better time than this as it will serves as an important tool during the reviewing the current UNDAF. She emphasize the importance of monitoring of development strategies and the promotion of evidence-based policy and decision-making. Finally she indicated that the UN will continue to support the process.

The UNDP Deputy Resident Representative Mr. Georges van Montfort highlighted the gaps that are being encounter in programme planning and implementation due to the absence of monitoring and evaluation activities. He also reiterated that the UN is committed to supporting the NMES both financially and technically. He said that however, development partners assistance is only temporary and therefore, it should be ensured that NMES is established within the existing Government structures for sustainability.

The Principal Secretary, Ministry of Finance and Development Planning Mr. Khethisa reiterated the importance of reliable and time information in meaningful decision making and the commitment of the Government in ensuring that the objectives of this initiative comes to fruition.