Evaluation aims to unlock Tanzania’s innovation potential

The Ifakara Innovation Hub, a catalyst for regional innovation and entrepreneurship, was the subject of an end-term evaluation conducted by Genesis Analytics at the behest of the Embassy of Switzerland in Tanzania.

The evaluation aimed to guide stakeholders in making informed decisions about the hub’s future direction and its role in fostering regional innovation.

The embassy is a core funding partner of the hub, which empowers youth and women entrepreneurs and innovators to develop innovative solutions to societal challenges. The hub’s objectives include transforming ideas into marketable products, strengthening the innovation ecosystems in Tanzania, and creating skilled jobs through the development of social entrepreneurship.

In 2021, Genesis conducted a mid-term review funded by Fondation Botnar. The end-term evaluation not only reflected on the findings and recommendations of the mid-term review but also marked the conclusion of the hub’s first phase of implementation. It examined the extent to which the recommendations from the mid-term review had been implemented and assessed the project’s performance to date.

The evaluation adopted a theory-based approach informed by a comprehensive evaluation framework that aligned with the OECD- DAC criteria. The findings were translated into actionable recommendations aimed at improving the hub’s profile in the region and internationally, enhancing collaboration with partners and funders, and increasing the operational efficiency of the hub. The goal is to inform a potential Phase 2 of the project.