Monitoring & Evaluation (M&E) Specialist at Bantwana Initiative Uganda, Hoima

Bantwana Initiative Uganda (BIU) is a registered national NGO dedicated to strengthening systems and community structures that support the wellbeing, protection, and resilience of vulnerable children, adolescents, and their caregivers. With a focus on integrated programming across child protection, education, health (including HIV/AIDS), and economic strengthening, BIU works in partnership with government and local actors to deliver locally driven, sustainable solutions. Operating across multiple districts in Uganda, BIU combines evidence-based approaches with deep community engagement to create safe, inclusive environments where children and youth can survive, thrive, and reach their full potential. BIU is committed to equity, diversity, and inclusion in the workplace.

Job Summary

The Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning (MEL) Specialist is responsible for designing, implementing, and managing robust MEL systems that support effective program delivery, track performance, assess impact, and foster learning and accountability across the organization. This role ensures that data is collected and used strategically to inform decision-making, improve program quality, and demonstrate results to stakeholders.

Working closely with program teams and partners, the MEL Specialist develops and oversees MEL frameworks, indicators, data collection tools, and reporting mechanisms. The position ensures data is accurate, timely, and actionable, supporting both internal learning and external reporting. The MEL Specialist also promotes adaptive learning and evidence-based programming to drive continuous improvement across BIU’s multi-sectoral initiatives.

Key Result Areas and Specific Responsibilities

Monitoring & Data Management

Design and implement effective M&E systems, frameworks, and tools aligned with project goals and donor requirements.
Lead the collection, analysis, and reporting of program performance data to support evidence-based decision-making.
Oversee data quality assurance processes through verification, audits, and routine assessments.
Manage and maintain the organization’s M&E databases ensuring data security, accuracy, and timeliness.
Build the capacity of program teams in data management, utilization, and learning documentation.

Evaluation & Learning

Design and lead baseline, midline, and endline evaluations to assess program performance and impact.
Document lessons learned, best practices, and success stories for organizational learning and knowledge sharing.
Facilitate reflection sessions and learning reviews with project teams to inform adaptive management.
Synthesize evaluation findings into actionable recommendations to enhance program effectiveness.

Capacity Building & Technical Support

Train and mentor staff and partners on data collection, reporting, and use of M&E tools.
Provide technical guidance on indicator development, target tracking, and results measurement.
Foster a culture of data-driven decision-making and continuous learning through regular coaching.

Reporting & Accountability

Prepare high-quality M&E reports for donors, management, and other stakeholders.
Ensure compliance with donor requirements and national reporting frameworks.
Promote accountability to beneficiaries by integrating community feedback into M&E processes.

Data Demand and Use

Promote data-driven decision-making by engaging program teams in regular data reviews.
Develop and share dashboards, reports, and data visualizations for easy interpretation.
Integrate data insights into program planning, adaptive management, and learning agendas.

Qualifications & Experience

Bachelor’s degree in Statistics, Population Studies, Quantitative Economics, Development Studies, or a related field (Master’s degree preferred).
5–10 years of progressive experience in M&E within NGOs or multi-sectoral development programs.
Strong knowledge of M&E frameworks such as Logical Framework, Theory of Change, and Results Framework.
Proficiency in software such as SPSS, STATA, Excel, Power BI, or similar data tools.
Excellent report writing, analytical, and communication skills.
Experience with donor-funded projects (USAID, EU, UN, etc.) is an added advantage.

Key Skills & Competencies

Expertise in M&E methodologies, frameworks, and evaluation processes.
Strong data analysis, visualization, and management skills using quantitative and qualitative methods.
Ability to translate complex data into clear insights and recommendations.
Skilled in capacity building, training, and mentoring staff and partners.
Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement abilities.
Strong problem-solving, collaboration, and leadership skills.
Commitment to ethical data practices, confidentiality, and integrity.
Adaptability and strategic thinking to align MEL with evolving organizational priorities.