LIVE IN GREEN

SHINE-IT MEAL Training Empowering Refugee-Led Organizations in Kyaka II On January 9th and 10th, 2025, LIVE IN GREEN successfully conducted a transformative SHINE-IT Monitoring, Evaluation, Accountability, and Learning (MEAL) training for nine Refugee-Led Organizations (RLOs) in the Kyaka II Refugee Settlement. This milestone event, funded by Response Innovation Lab (U-RIL), marked a significant step in building the capacity of RLOs to improve program implementation and accountability. A Collaborative Effort The training event brought together an inspiring mix of participants and esteemed guests, including representatives from the UNHCR Kyaka II Field Team, the Refugee Welfare Council (RWC) III, and the CEO of the Kyaka II Refugee-Led Organizations Network (KRLON). Their presence underscored the importance of empowering refugee-led initiatives and fostering collaborations that drive sustainable development. Training Objectives and Focus Areas The SHINE-IT MEAL training was designed to equip participants with essential skills and tools to: 1. Develop MEAL Frameworks: Participants learned how to design comprehensive MEAL plans tailored to their organization’s specific programs and goals. 2. Enhance Data Collection and Analysis: Practical sessions focused on collecting and analyzing data effectively to measure program impact. 3. Promote Accountability: Strategies for engaging beneficiaries and ensuring their voices are heard were a core part of the curriculum. 4. Facilitate Learning and Adaptation: Participants were introduced to methods for applying insights from MEAL activities to improve program design and implementation. 5. Leverage Digital Tools: Training on the SHINE-IT platform enabled organizations to use technology for streamlined reporting and tracking progress. Innovation Journey Roadmap (Theory of Change) A key highlight of the training was the introduction of the Innovation Journey Roadmap (Theory of Change). This roadmap provided participants with a structured approach to: • Define Long-Term Goals: Clearly articulate the desired impact their programs aim to achieve. • Identify Pathways to Change: Map out the necessary preconditions, interventions, and actions required to realize these goals. • Establish Indicators of Success: Develop measurable indicators to track progress and evaluate outcomes. • Incorporate Feedback Loops: Use insights from MEAL activities to refine strategies and adapt to emerging needs. The roadmap emphasized a participatory approach, ensuring that beneficiaries’ perspectives and voices remain central to program design and evaluation. Interactive and Practical Learning The training sessions were highly interactive, featuring group discussions, case studies, and hands-on exercises. Participants worked collaboratively to develop sample MEAL frameworks and practiced using digital tools to monitor and evaluate projects. This approach ensured that the learning experience was both practical and applicable to their ongoing and future initiatives. Key Outcomes and Impact The training achieved several notable outcomes: • Capacity Building: All nine RLOs left with enhanced knowledge and confidence to implement MEAL practices effectively within their organizations. • Improved Collaboration: The event fostered stronger connections among RLOs, encouraging peer learning and shared experiences. • Technology Integration: Participants gained practical experience with the SHINE-IT platform, empowering them to embrace digital solutions in their work. • Commitment to Accountability: The training reinforced the importance of transparency and accountability in delivering impactful programs to beneficiaries. Voices from the Training Participants and guests expressed their appreciation for the initiative: • “This training has been an eye-opener. We now have the tools to measure the real impact of our work and make data-driven decisions,” said a representative from one of the RLOs. • “LIVE IN GREEN continues to demonstrate its commitment to empowering refugee-led organizations. This training is a testament to their dedication,” remarked the KRLON CEO. A Step Towards Sustainable Development LIVE IN GREEN remains steadfast in its mission to empower refugee and host communities through capacity-building initiatives like the SHINE-IT MEAL training. By equipping RLOs with critical skills, the organization ensures that grassroots efforts are more effective, accountable, and impactful. As these nine RLOs implement their newly acquired knowledge, the ripple effects are expected to enhance program quality, improve lives, and contribute to the broader goal of sustainable development in Kyaka II Refugee Settlement.