The purpose of this mid-term evaluation is to assess the design, coordination, and added value of the Maternal Health Thematic Fund (MHTF) as a targeted effort to improve maternal health. The evaluation was carried out simultaneously with the thematic evaluation of UNFPA support to maternal health (MHTE) with a view to realizing the potential for synergies between the two exercises.
The mid-term evaluation is based on the strategic framework of the MHTF as contained in the MHTF Business Plan. The evaluation focuses on specific technical areas such as midwifery, family planning and emergency obstetric and newborn care (EmONC) and assesses the potential for the MHTF to act in a catalytic manner. The evaluation also covers the internal coordination and management processes of the MHTF (support to planning, programming and monitoring; coordination and management mechanisms; the MHTF progress in facilitating integration and use of synergies). Additionally, aspects of leveraging and visibility are assessed. Following the terms of reference, the evaluation covers the period from the launch of the MHTF in 2008 until 2010, and also includes information related to a number of interventions implemented in 2011.