Measuring What Matters: Rethinking Evaluation in WASH Systems Strengthening Programmes

Evaluating WASH programmes has traditionally focused on measuring tangible outputs and service-level outcomes. However, systems strengthening programmes require a different evaluative lens—one that can capture long-term change in how institutions, behaviours, and structures interact. The paper Measuring What Matters shares key insights from the evaluation of Welthungerhilfe's Global WASH Programme, which applied a systems strengthening approach across four countries. The paper reinterprets OECD-DAC criteria through a systems lens, introduces a practical framework for assessing progress in complex system contexts, and proposes ways to design evaluations that reflect the realities of systemic change.