In 2019, GAIN commissioned Philanthropy Advisors (PA), a consulting firm specialised in the evaluation of development programmes, to conduct an independent assessment of its approach to large scale food fortification (LSFF). This assessment was designed to present a thorough understanding of the relevance, targeting and implementation of the overall portfolio and its constituent projects, programme/project activities, and of GAIN’s contribution to attained outcomes (globally or at national level). The specific objectives were to:
- Assess the relevance, international consistency, and feasibility of GAIN’s theory of change at global and national levels; and
- Assess the extent to which its efforts are likely to establish, improve and sustain fortification programmes at the national level and be effective in increasing global political and financial support for fortification through advocacy initiatives and diverse platforms (Global Fortification Data Exchange (GFDx), Global Fortification Technical Advisory Group, (GF-TAG)).
Using a theory-based approach, the analysis covered the three pillars of the LSFF portfolio theory of change (i.e., 1) demand creation, 2) increasing the accessibility of fortified foods, and 3) improving governance of fortification programmes), and included an in-depth analysis of three national contexts: Bangladesh, Ethiopia, and Nigeria. The focus was on collecting existing evidence in literature, documentation, and through stakeholder consultation. To obtain the clearest possible picture of GAIN’s contribution to LSFF objectives and results, the authors of the report conducted interviews with GAIN staff, donors, partners, and consultants as well as with other development organisations and subject experts.
LSFF is considered one of the most cost effective nutrition interventions, and involves inputs from public and private sectors. A summary of the key findings and recommendations is available in the executive summary.
