Implementation Evaluation of the National Food and Nutrition Security Plan (NFNSP)

Introduction Genesis Analytics (hereafter ‘Genesis’) was appointed by the Department of Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation (DPME) to conduct an implementation evaluation of the National Food and Nutrition Security Plan 2018-2023 (NFNSP). The purpose of the evaluation is to assess the Plan’s implementation, progress towards predefined targets, assess factors that facilitate or inhibit its implementation, examine the Plan’s institutional arrangements, and provide recommendations for refinement and enhancement. Methodology A systems-thinking lens and a theory-based approach was adopted to evaluate the Plan, considering the interconnections and interactions within the food and nutrition security (FNS) system. Systems thinking allowed a comprehensive understanding of the Plan's context and encouraged a holistic assessment using qualitative and quantitative data. The theory-based evaluation approach utilised a Theory of Change (ToC) to map the Plan's logic, linking activities to outputs, outcomes, and intended impact. By integrating both approaches, the evaluation assessed the Plan's contribution to outcomes while considering the broader FNS system. A stakeholder mapping exercise was undertaken to identify all relevant stakeholders within the FNS system. This included all spheres of government and non-state actors within the FNS system. Drawing on the stakeholder map and the Theory of Change, an evaluation framework was developed that included the key evaluation questions, sub-questions and data sources through which these questions would be answered. The evaluation used both primary and secondary data collection methods. Primary data was collected in the form of 31 Key Informant Interviews (KIIs) with key stakeholders in the system. Secondary data was consolidated across NFNSP reports, relevant departmental reports, and external literature. Background to NFNSP South Africa faces a complex food and nutrition security challenge due to historical, socioeconomic and environmental factors. Many lack access to nutritious food, resulting in high levels of malnutrition. The NFNSP aims to address malnutrition through seven objectives, including aligning policies and implementing programmes, expanding social protection measures, and encouraging informed food decisions.