A commentary: Using a theory-based approach to guide a global programme of FGM/C research: What have we learned about creating actionable research findings?. (October 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Strachan, Jacinta Muteshi
• Is Part Of: Evaluation and program planning. Volume 88(2021)
• Publication Date: 2021-10
• Subjects: Theory of change -- Female genital mutilation-cutting -- Planning -- Implementing research -- Achieving research outcomes; Health planning -- Periodicals; Medical care -- Evaluation -- Periodicals; 362.1068
• DOI: 10.1016/j.evalprogplan.2021.101968
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0149-7189

Abstract

Highlights: Globally estimated that approximately 3.6 million girls are at risk of Female Genital Mutilation/Cutting (FGM/C) each year. Available evidence base on FGM/C has generally faced several critical gaps. The lack of theory-based intervention and evaluation designs. A lack of investment in monitoring and evaluation (M&E) of FGM/C interventions. Methodological challenges in measuring the drivers and dynamics of FGM/C as a social norm, and in evaluating complex behaviour and social norms changing interventions. A theory of Change was thus designed to facilitate exploration of the complexities of researching a sensitive social practices and needed responsive interventions. Abstract: The 'Evidence to End FGM/C: Research to Help Girls and Women Thrive ' programme created a research consortium that brought together African institutions and the world's leading and most experienced researchers in Female genital mutilation/cutting (FGM/C) abandonment. The priority countries for research were Burkina Faso, Egypt, Ethiopia, Kenya, Nigeria, Senegal, Somalia, and Sudan, given their stages of abandonment, the scale of the practice, and socio-cultural variations. Given the ambitious scope of the research component, the consortium outlined a theory of change (ToC). The ToC was designed to facilitate an exploration of the attendant complexities of researching a social practice underpinned with political and religious sensitivities and strong links to individual, family and community identity. Overall, we believe that efforts to encourage FGM/C abandonment would be more effective, more efficient and with greater value for money if a theory of change were used routinely to inform research, programming and evaluation design. This commentary contributes to this goal by documenting our experiences with using a theory of change in designing and implementing research to inform the uptake of research for the design and evaluation of FGM/C interventions. A substantial portfolio of robust evidence is now online. This evidence provides new knowledge, insights, methods, and tools that are valuable to diverse end-users such as researchers, programme implementers, the health, legal and education systems, governments, donors, and the media. A vibrant South-South and South-North collaboration has been built fostering strong working relationships with government ministries and programme/policymakers in the priority countries.