Global research on malaria data quality audits

Led qualitative research for Malaria Consortium to document how National Malaria Control Programmes conduct data quality audits and use findings to strengthen routine malaria surveillance systems. The research captured experiences from 39 malaria-endemic countries and informed practical recommendations and learning resources for the global malaria community.

Client: Malaria Consortium

Location: Global

Duration: October 2023 – November 2024

Services

Research • Monitoring, Evaluation & Learning

Overview

Malaria Consortium commissioned this consultancy on behalf of the Surveillance Practice and Data Quality Committee of the Roll Back Malaria Partnership to document global experience of conducting malaria data quality audits (DQAs). The aim was to understand how countries design and implement DQAs, how findings are used to improve routine surveillance systems, and to identify good practice and shared learning across malaria-endemic countries.

My Role

I led the consultancy, working closely with the Surveillance Practice and Data Quality Committee and an international technical working group throughout the project. My responsibilities included:

• designing the qualitative research methodology, data collection tools and analysis framework;

• leading and conducting the global consultation across 39 participating countries;

• conducting qualitative analysis of responses from 39 countries;

• synthesising findings and developing practical recommendations;

• producing the final global report and six thematic learning briefs; and

• presenting findings through an international webinar and at the Roll Back Malaria annual meeting in Nairobi.

Testimonials

“Ellen excelled in communication and led a task force to scope Data Quality Audit approaches across the sector. She consolidated a lot of information and delivered a detailed landscaping piece as well as insightful and digestible learning briefs. Ellen built strong relationships with the task force and contributing committee members.”

Lizzie Borrough, Project Manager, Malaria Consortium