Evidence-Based Practice

Measurable, Meaningful Change

At Iyashi Wellness Centre, we believe that effective programs are built on a foundation of rigorous evidence. Our approach to Monitoring, Evaluation, and Research ensures that every intervention we design is effective.

Our Approach to Impact

We measure improvements in wellbeing and resilience. Our unique strength lies in our integrated approach, combining the clinical precision of a psychologist with the systems-level perspective of a public health nutritionist.

This allows us to design and implement robust M&E frameworks that capture our impact holistically.

Evidence-Based

Grounding all our programs in the latest scientific research.

Data-Driven

Using high-quality data to inform our decisions and prove our effectiveness.

Community-Centered

Employing participatory methods that ensure our research is co-created with the communities we serve.

What We Measure

We measure our impact across three key levels to ensure comprehensive understanding of our effectiveness.

For Individuals

Personal Wellbeing Using Validated Clinical Scales

Key Indicators:

  • Reduced symptoms of depression and anxiety
  • Improved stress management and coping skills
  • Increased self-esteem and sense of agency

For Communities

Collective Impact on Community Resilience and Social Cohesion

Key Indicators:

  • Increased social support networks
  • Reduced stigma around mental health
  • Improved community-level help-seeking behaviours

For Systems

Contribution to Strengthening Broader Health and Social Systems

Key Indicators:

  • Increased capacity of community health workers
  • Successful integration of MHPSS into primary care
  • Development of evidence that informs policy change

Our Research and M&E Services for Partners

We offer our technical expertise to our partners to help them achieve their own impact goals. Our consulting services include:

Programme Evaluation

Leading independent, end-to-end evaluations of health, nutrition, and MHPSS projects.

MEAL Framework Development

Co-designing Monitoring, Evaluation, Accountability & Learning (MEAL) frameworks, including Theories of Change, Results Frameworks, and Log frames.

Qualitative & Quantitative Research

Conducting in-depth research studies, from protocol design and data collection to analysis (using tools like NVivo and MAXQDA) and authoring final reports.

Capacity Building

Training M&E staff and project teams on data collection, analysis, and how to use evidence to improve their programs.

Dada Connect Programme Impact

Our Dada Connect Community Resilience Programme has demonstrated significant impact in supporting women survivors of Gender-Based Violence through our integrated 'Well-being First' approach.

Clinical Outcomes

  • 78% reduction in trauma symptoms (measured using PCL-5)
  • 65% improvement in self-efficacy scores
  • 82% of participants report improved emotional regulation

Economic Empowerment

  • 89% of participants successfully launched micro-enterprises
  • Average 45% increase in household income
  • 92% report improved financial confidence

Community Impact

  • Strengthened support networks for 95% of participants
  • Reduced social isolation by 70%
  • Enhanced community awareness of GBV resources

Dada Connect Programme Details

Programme Structure

The 12-month programme combines trauma-informed mental health support with practical business skills training, delivered through group-based sessions that foster peer support and community building.

Evidence-Based Approach

Our methodology integrates Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) principles with community-based participatory approaches, ensuring culturally appropriate and sustainable interventions.

Sustainability Model

Participants form collectively-owned micro-enterprises that continue beyond the programme duration, creating lasting economic empowerment and ongoing peer support networks.

Project RISE™ Programme Impact

Our award-winning Project RISE™ combines AI-powered technology with community-based 'Safe Circles' to create a comprehensive child protection ecosystem.

Early Identification

  • 85% improvement in early identification of at-risk children
  • 60% reduction in response time to child protection concerns
  • Enhanced screening accuracy through AI-powered assessment tools

Community Capacity

  • Trained 150+ community facilitators across pilot sites
  • Established 25 active Safe Circles in target communities
  • 92% of facilitators report increased confidence in child protection

System Strengthening

  • Improved coordination between community and formal protection systems
  • Enhanced data collection and reporting mechanisms
  • Scalable model ready for wider implementation

🏆 Award Recognition

1st Place Winner - Global Development Network Future Solutions Pitch Challenge

Featured Research & Publications

Our commitment to evidence-based practice is reflected in our contributions to the field through research and publications that advance understanding of community mental health and nutrition.

Research Report2020

Climate shock responsiveness of the Kenya health system

Oxford Policy Management

Examining how Kenya's health system responds to climate-related shocks and their impact on community wellbeing.

Research Article2020

Transitioning nutrition programming from humanitarian aid to health system strengthening in Kenya

Emergency Nutrition Network (ENN)

Exploring sustainable approaches to integrating nutrition programming within Kenya's health system framework.

Policy Brief2024

Planet Friendly Homegrown School Feeding Programme: What does it mean?

CGIAR

Defining sustainable, locally-sourced school feeding programs that support both nutrition and environmental goals.

Resource Guide2018

Kenya Food Recipes - A Recipes Book of Common Mixed Dishes With Nutrient Values

FAO & Ministry of Health, Kenya

Comprehensive guide to traditional Kenyan dishes with detailed nutritional analysis for community health programming.

Reference Manual2018

Kenya Food Composition Tables

FAO & Ministry of Health, Kenya

Essential reference for nutritional content of local foods, supporting evidence-based nutrition programming across Kenya.

Ready to Partner With Us?

Let's work together to create evidence-based solutions that make a measurable impact on community wellbeing and resilience.