Original Research

Process evaluation in the context of emergencies: Lessons learnt from Operation Restore Hope

Augustine Savanhu, Simbarashe Mazongonda, Audacious Jaunda, Innocent Chirisa
African Evaluation Journal | Vol 11, No 1 | a597 | DOI: https://doi.org/10.4102/aej.v11i1.597 | © 2023 Augustine Savanhu; Simbarashe Mazongonda; Audacious Jaunda; Innocent Chirisa | This work is licensed under CC Attribution 4.0
Submitted: 28 November 2021 | Published: 06 October 2023

About the author(s)

Augustine Savanhu, Department of Monitoring and Evaluation, Faculty of Social Sciences, Lupane State University, Bulawayo, Zimbabwe
Simbarashe Mazongonda, Department of Architecture and Real estate, Faculty of Engineering and the Built Environment, University of Zimbabwe, Harare, Zimbabwe
Audacious Jaunda, Department of Statistics, Faculty of Science, University of Zimbabwe, Harare, Zimbabwe
Innocent Chirisa, Department of Demography Settlement and Development, Faculty of Social and Behavioural Sciences, University of Zimbabwe, Harare, Zimbabwe

Abstract

Background: This article uses case data from Operation Restore Hope to assess the effectiveness of models used during disaster response. Disasters take the form of emergencies and demand rapid response. As such, an understanding of models used in emergencies edifies knowledge on disaster preparedness and response.

Objectives: This study aims to describe and assess the effectiveness and weaknesses of the intervention model used by Higherlife Foundation (HLF) in responding to disasters.

Method: The four-tier approach used by HLF in this intervention. Secondary data were gathered using content and thematic analyses and primary data were gathered using key informant interviews, focus group discussions and participant observation. In each of the four phases, emphasis was placed on flagging out the role of HLF with the view of bringing to light what worked and what failed to work.

Results: The four phases of the model enabled smooth execution of the intervention, with the last phase providing a good exit strategy. Furthermore, the model partly used indigenous voices to achieve its intended purpose. However, the model must have been prepared before the disaster to factor in the pre-disaster phase. Inclusion of such a phase must have seen the evacuation of people before the disaster following early warnings that were given.

Conclusion: The model used is in this study comprised four phases that logically feed into and from each other, and the model concludes with a good exit strategy that empowers surviving victims. It recommended that a pre-disaster phase must have been part of the model to minimise on the extent and cost of damage.


Keywords

process evaluation; Tropical Cyclone Idai; Chimanimani; Higherlife Foundation; operation restore hope; emergency

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Crossref Citations

1. The African Evaluation Journal and the field of monitoring and evaluation in Africa
Mark A. Abrahams
African Evaluation Journal  vol: 11  issue: 1  year: 2023  
doi: 10.4102/aej.v11i1.714