In 2024, Women and Social Protection (WSP) was commissioned to lead a national evaluation of the Gender Action Plan (GAP) 2019–2024 under Tanzania Social Action Fund (TASAF)’s Productive Social Safety Net Phase II (PSSN II). This initiative marks a significant step toward strengthening gender-responsive programming within Tanzania’s social protection landscape.
A Nationwide Assessment with Local Depth
The evaluation was carried out across seven diverse districts, spanning both mainland Tanzania and Zanzibar:
- Bahi DC (Dodoma)
- Lindi MC
- Bunda TC (Mara)
- Namtumbo DC (Ruvuma)
- Iringa MC
- Uyui DC (Tabora)
- Micheweni (Pemba – Zanzibar)
The goal of the evaluation was to assess how effectively the Gender Action Plan was implemented, identify achievements and gaps, and offer evidence-based recommendations for the next phase of the program.
Empowering the Next Generation of Researchers
One of the standout features of this evaluation was the active engagement of junior researchers, providing them with a hands-on learning opportunity in all aspects of the assessment process. These emerging professionals participated in:
- Field data collection
- Data cleaning, coding, and thematic development
- Analysis and interpretation
- Feedback session preparation
- Final report writing and presentation
“This was more than an evaluation—it was a capacity-building journey for young researchers to understand gender mainstreaming in action,” said a WSP team leader.
Towards Inclusive and Accountable Social Protection
WSP’s findings are contributing to a more inclusive and responsive social protection framework under TASAF, ensuring that women’s and men’s experiences and needs are equally recognized in poverty reduction strategies. The assessment also paves the way for a more gender-transformative approach in future social assistance programs.
WSP remains committed to fostering inclusive policies that recognize and address the unique challenges facing women and girls in Tanzania. For more information on this project or to collaborate with us, please get in touch.