DANAMISSION CAPACITATE ZACCA STAFFS ON OUTCOME HARVEST
Outcome Harvesting is a transformative Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) approach that focuses on identifying and analyzing changes brought about by an intervention. Unlike traditional M&E methods that rely on predefined indicators, Outcome Harvesting works retrospectively—it starts by asking what changed and then investigates how the intervention contributed to that change. This method is especially valuable in complex environments such as climate advocacy, where outcomes are often emergent and influenced by multiple actors.
During the Outcome Harvesting training conducted by Danmission for ZACCA staff on August 11–12, 2025, participants were introduced to the six core steps of the methodology: designing the harvest, reviewing documentation, engaging informants, substantiating outcomes, analyzing findings, and using results. The training emphasized participatory learning, encouraging ZACCA staff to reflect on their own projects and identify real-world changes in community behavior, policy shifts, or environmental practices that could be attributed to their work. This hands-on approach helped staff internalize the method and see its relevance to their climate change initiatives.
One of the key takeaways from the training was the importance of capturing behavioral and relational changes among social actors—such as local communities, government agencies, and civil society organizations. ZACCA staff learned how to formulate outcome statements that clearly describe who changed, what changed, and how ZACCA contributed to that change. This skill is crucial for documenting impact in areas like mangrove conservation, waste management, and climate resilience, where traditional metrics may not fully capture the depth of transformation.
The training also highlighted how Outcome Harvesting can be used to strengthen learning and accountability within organizations. By engaging stakeholders in the harvesting process, ZACCA can foster a culture of reflection and continuous improvement. The method allows for the recognition of both intended and unintended outcomes, enabling staff to adapt strategies based on evidence and experience. This is particularly useful for ZACCA’s multifaceted programs under its 2022–2026 Strategic Plan, which include initiatives like the Resilience Hub and Taka Innovation.
In conclusion, the Outcome Harvesting training by Danmission equipped ZACCA staff with a powerful tool to monitor and evaluate their climate change efforts more effectively. It provided a structured yet flexible framework for capturing meaningful change and understanding the organization’s contribution to it. As ZACCA continues to champion environmental conservation and climate justice in Zanzibar, Outcome Harvesting will serve as a vital mechanism for learning, accountability, and strategic growth