Making the Implicit Explicit: A Theory-Informed Reflection on Emergent Evaluation Capacity Building Practice

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Abstract

This practice note reflects on how evaluation capacity building (ECB) took root organically within a public sector institution in Kenya during a period of reform. Rather than resulting from formal training or external interventions, ECB practices emerged through routine processes and leadership-driven structures. Drawing on Preskill and Boyle’s (2008)framework, the reflection reinterprets these experiences as fostering a supportive culture, building communities of practice, and embedding evaluation into planning and decision-making. It also surfaces the tensions between theory and practice, offering a grounded, practice-informed perspective. This piece contributes to broader conversations on sustainable evaluation practice by showing how ECB can emerge from within institutions rather than being imposed from outside, offering actionable insights for leaders and practitioners..

Authors

• Doreen Akinyi Otieno, Ohio University

• Krisanna L. Machtmes, Ohio University