Summary

The study discusses the contribution of volunteerism to monitoring and evaluation (M&E) of NGO projects using the case study of an NGO in Chegutu district, Zimbabwe. Using a qualitative research approach, data was collected from organization-based volunteers and NGO officials through in-depth interviews. 

Findings show that volunteers perform several M&E roles that include data collection, reporting, feedback of project success, peer-to-peer mentoring and beneficiary verification. These roles are embedded in the broader project functions. While performing these roles, several challenges affect the outcomes of M&E, such as low literacy levels and low commitment by some volunteers.

The study underlines the importance of capacity-building of volunteers that work with NGOs and are involved in M&E activities.