16.6 Post-distribution monitoring
The purpose of post-distribution monitoring is to verify the correct entitlements were received by the correct recipients, and the distribution process is accessible to all recipients. Data must be obtained through normal programme monitoring activities on such things as: the actual use of distributed goods or commodities; specific problems or constraints relating to the storage, preparation and use of commodities; or the impact of the distribution on recipient’s lives or livelihoods. Depending on the monitoring system in use at the Country Office, it may be efficient to also interview neighbouring recipients who were absent from the last distribution at this time in order to determine the reason(s) for their absence. The following procedures should be applied:
- Within one to two weeks after a distribution, randomly select recipient households in the area targeted by the distribution. The total number of households to be interviewed (the sample size) depends on the Country Office distribution monitoring system design, but a larger-than-normal sample size is warranted for the following cases:
- situations where the population is not homogenous, or where there are social tensions or insecurity
- sites where the actual ration/items distributed varied from the approved ration/items
- sites where normally scheduled distributions were modified due to late or missed deliveries of goods or commodities
- At each selected household, conduct a focused interview, preferably following a predetermined questionnaire.
- Specific data that should be collected during post-distribution monitoring interviews include:
- how the recipient was informed of the distribution
- who actually collected the ration (i.e. cardholder or other) and how much in terms of quantities
- amount of time spend waiting at the site to collect entitlements
- what specifically was received, in terms of items and quantities per person
- discrepancies between expected and received items
- whether the recipient was charged any fee or tax before, during or after the distribution
- how the community participated in the distribution process
- satisfaction with the process
- whether or not the recipient meets the targeting criteria
- Pay special attention to seek feedback directly from women and children-in addition to men-on their access to, and satisfaction with, the distribution.
- Ensure the ration card number is recorded and the persons being interviewed signs the interview questionnaires.