Online Reporter
Tendai Gukutikwa
Post Reporter
GOVERNMENT has intensified efforts to strengthen performance tracking and accountability systems as it moves into the full implementation of National Development Strategy (NDS2), with the development of a consolidated National Key Performance Indicators (KPI) handbook.
Speaking during the NDS2 KPI Handbook Validation and Consolidation Workshop held in Mutare this week, Policy Coordination, Analysis and Development Planning Deputy Chief Secretary in the Office of the President and Cabinet, Dr William Manungo, said the initiative marks a critical step towards results-driven governance.
“This engagement comes at a critical moment as Government transitions into full implementation of NDS2, our third and final national blueprint for accelerating socio-economic transformation towards achieving Vision 2030,” said Dr Manungo, while emphasising that monitoring and evaluation are now central to Government operations, rather than a peripheral administrative function.
“Monitoring and Evaluation is no longer a peripheral administrative function. It is now a strategic management instrument that informs policy, strengthens accountability and enables Government to measure whether development interventions are producing the intended impact in the lives of our citizens,” he said, adding that the development of the National KPI handbook is a major reform designed to address inconsistencies experienced under the National Development Strategy (NDS1).
“One of the major lessons from the implementation of NDS1 was the absence of a consolidated National Key Performance Indicators handbook. Ministries and agencies often utilised indicators that differed in definitions, formulas and data sources, resulting in inconsistencies in reporting,” said Dr Manungo, adding that the new handbook will serve as the single authoritative reference for Government performance indicators.
“The handbook will standardise indicator definitions, formulas, baselines, targets and reporting frequencies across all sectors. It will ensure that all ministries, departments and agencies speak the same results language when measuring development progress,” he said.
Dr Manungo said the move will strengthen the national results framework by ensuring clarity on what is measured and how progress is assessed.
“It ensures clarity on what we measure, how we measure it, who provides the data, how often reporting occurs and how progress is assessed,” he said, also highlighting Government’s decision to streamline indicators under NDS2 to focus on high-impact results.
“Experience has shown that an excessive number of indicators can dilute focus. For this reason, Government has undertaken a deliberate exercise to streamline national indicators to a limited set of high-level and high-impact KPIs, fewer than 50 in total,” he said.
Dr Manungo stressed that credible monitoring requires credible data, adding that Government is putting in place robust data management protocols.
“These protocols will define clear standards for data collection, validation, quality assurance, security and reporting procedures. Reliable data is essential for evidence-based decision-making,” he said, further urging Government institutions to operate in a “rapid results mode” to accelerate service delivery.
“Monitoring, Evaluation and Learning should, not only track progress, but also enable timely corrective action, continuous learning and accelerated service delivery across sectors,” said Dr Manungo.
Also addressing the participants, Data Management, Results Monitoring and Reporting Specialist from the United Nations Resident Coordinator’s Office, Ms Getrude Nyashadzamwari Matsika, commended Government for taking a decisive step towards strengthening results tracking systems.
“The development of the KPI handbook is not just another activity ticked off the list; it is a real milestone. It shows commitment, leadership and a genuine desire to strengthen how the country tracks and demonstrates results,” she said.
Ms Matsika said the workshop reflects inclusive and coordinated leadership, bringing together various Government arms to agree on a common framework.
“This is an opportunity for us to collectively reflect on what we are trying to achieve as a nation, and to have a common understanding of how we measure that progress and ensure that every action connects to results that truly matter for Zimbabweans,” she said, further noting Zimbabwe’s efforts align with global best practices in results-based management.
“As we approach the 2030 deadline for the Sustainable Development Goals, countries everywhere are prioritising robust monitoring systems, harmonised indicators and consistent reporting. This workshop places Zimbabwe at the centre of global best practice,” said Ms Matsika.
She also underscored the growing importance of data and technology in development.
“We are seeing tremendous shifts driven by technology, such as Artificial Intelligence, digital platforms and advanced analytics. These tools can help ministries plan better, target interventions more effectively and track progress in real time,” she said.
Ms Matsika, however, stressed the need for continued investment in data systems.
“For this work to reach its full potential, there is a need for continued Government investment in strong data ecosystems. Without these investments, effective policy-making will be constrained by evidence gaps,” she said, and reaffirmed the United Nations’ commitment to supporting Zimbabwe in strengthening data-driven governance.
“As the United Nations, we stand ready to support Government in strengthening the use of data to inform decision-making, leveraging digital solutions and promoting innovative approaches to development,” she said.
Permanent Secretary for Manicaland Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Mr Abiot Maronge said the workshop was of great national significance.
“The consolidation and validation of indicators will culminate in the development of the National KPI handbook, which will serve as the authoritative framework for tracking national performance under NDS2,” he said.
Mr Maronge highlighted the importance of provinces in driving development outcomes.
“While policies may be crafted at national level, development ultimately happens in our provinces, districts and communities. It is therefore imperative that monitoring frameworks reflect realities on the ground,” he said.
He said strengthened monitoring systems will ensure efficient use of resources and equitable distribution of development.
