News, insights, and reflections from our work, expertise, and methodologies.
Participation is at the heart of how I evaluate. Not as a methodological preference, but as a conviction. When I design evaluation processes, I look for methods that invite people to reflect together, not just respond to questions.
MDF West Africa is expanding training for the We Can Work Programme to Kumasi and Sunyani, offering Core Life Skills training for persons with disabilities in Ghana.
What makes cluster-based interventions create lasting change? MDF and Technopolis evaluated 20 Impact Clusters projects across 12 countries to find out.
MDF's circular economy acceleration program in Rwanda produced a practical Investment Readiness Toolkit. Download the full set of documents here.
Humanitarian funding for refugee education continues to shrink, even as the number of learners in refugee camps keeps rising. In Dadaab refugee camp, the impact is already visible
At the heart of this evaluation is a practical question: how do CFIRP’s blended Service Delivery Models work in real conditions? We examine whether they fit farmers’ needs, make business sense for traders, and support regenerative practices.
In uncertain times, what keeps a team stable? Not authority alone. Trust reduces fear, creates space for honesty, and helps people keep moving forward together when the future feels unclear.
young persons with disabilities graduated from the We Can Work Programme’s Core Life Skills training in Accra, advancing to Entrepreneurship and Employability tracks. MDF West Africa led participatory sessions on self-awareness and career readiness.
Evaluations can unlock learning, sharpen programme design, and help teams make better decisions. That was the starting point for the course we developed for the International Organization for Migration (IOM).
An reflection on leadership in transition, where uncertainty, emotion, and changing realities ask leaders not for certainty, but for presence, honesty, and courage.
Many organisations invest in social inclusion, but measuring real impact is challenging. Are the right people reached? Do they feel included—and has change truly happened?
The strategic alliance between MDF and iCRA opens doors to larger programmes, broader networks, enlarged geographical reach and stronger propositions in agriculture, food systems, youth employment and inclusive value chains.
Maddalena and Nicolas recently co-facilitated a session in Brussels for the IYBA SEED project. It was more than a professional assignment it reminded them how friendship quietly shapes collaboration, connection, and learning.
Une délégation néerlandaise en visite au Bénin a salué les avancées du projet PPMEC. Plus de 31 500 droits fonciers enregistrés, dont 12% pour les femmes, marquent une étape clé vers un cadastre national inclusif et durable.
As of 1 September 2025, Ingrid Plag and Mike Zuijderduijn step down from MDF’s MT. We welcome Richard Yeboah as CEO and Michel Richter as ED-PID, bringing fresh vision to lead MDF’s mission for sustainable impact worldwide.
As a trainer, how do you look at your learners? Do you see them as capable of growth, or do you sometimes doubt them? Our mindset can be invisible, yet it seeps into the atmosphere of the room, and into the minds of those who sit before us.
Grâce au projet ABC Bénin porté par MDF Bénin, ASAFMA a bénéficié d’un coaching personnalisé, de formations en gestion, marketing et communication, ainsi que d’un suivi rapproché pour améliorer ses performances et structurer son développement.
An exploration of how DISC and team development theory intersect to enhance leadership awareness, communication, and group effectiveness in diverse teams.
The 2025 Business Climate Survey by NLBH and MDF, commissioned by the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, closed on July 31. Insights from Dutch businesses in Kenya will inform dialogue with Kenyan partners to improve the business environment.
The University of Juba is advancing digital learning to support refugee and displaced students. With AHEEN and MDF, faculty received hands-on training to deliver inclusive, tech-enabled higher education in fragile contexts.
MDF Bangladesh conducted a comprehensive endline evaluation of three inclusive education projects implemented by Protibondhi Community Centre (PCC) commissioned by CSI Luxembourg.
Girls-Only Learning Centre: Empowering Girls through MDF’s Inclusive Leadership Training Programme
Our Bangladesh team partnered with VEI, in supporting Dhaka WASA in its effort to reduce non-revenue water (NRW)through a new training module on leakage registration and change management.
MDF was selected to lead a nationwide gap analysis of Ghana’s Public Justice System. The study is part of a effort to strengthen the country’s response to child trafficking and improve justice delivery for vulnerable children.
This ToT was not about perfection. It was about laying down the foundation, giving committed individuals the skills and courage to step into the role of trainer.
When participants reflect on their actions, they begin to make connections. They uncover insights about their behavior, their assumptions, their team dynamics, or their leadership style. They notice what surprised them, what challenged them.
Le Bénin renforce son système cadastral avec le PPMEC : lancement de l’enregistrement des parcelles à Porto-Novo et Parakou, et actualisation des données dans 12 communes. Un pas de plus vers un cadastre national fiable et inclusif.
In the latest edition of our M&E course, participants applied their skills to real cases at Save the Children NL, enhancing outcome monitoring in youth policy and climate advocacy.
Go beyond lectures. Discover dynamic methods that get young people involved, making learning stick and creating real impact
Inspired by Beethoven’s resilience and innovation in the face of deafness, we shifted to a more personal space: What symphonies are we trying to compose, for our teams, our communities?
MDF ESA partnered with Nairobi’s Sarakasi Trust to design a vibrant, community-driven strategy. Through creative workshops and deep listening, artists, staff, and management shaped a shared vision for the future of performing arts in Kenya.
Regional Learning Journeys (RLJs) by the Netherlands Ministry of Foreign Affairs, supported by MDF brought embassy staff and policymakers to Kenya, Benin, and Egypt to explore local projects in water, food security, climate and energy.
Le Bénin renforce son cadre foncier avec le Décret N°2025-176, simplifiant les procédures de formalisation des transactions foncières grâce au Certificat d’Enregistrement au Cadastre (CEC) et à l’implication des communes.
Les équipes de l'ANDF et du PPMEC se sont réunies à Ouidah pour planifier le développement de fonctionnalités dans le système e-Foncier Bénin, afin de moderniser l'enregistrement et la gestion des titres fonciers au Bénin.
MDF West Africa and WRI have supported 45 entrepreneurs in Ghana’s Cocoa Belt through training, mentorship, and investor readiness under the Land Accelerator, part of AFR100’s land restoration efforts.
Every organisation wants to make the right decisions, decisions that lead to real impact... But how do we know what is working? And how do we adapt when things do not go as planned?
Impact ambitions are great, but how can your organisation take real steps toward change? Find out with MDF and TOP at the Impact Fair in Utrecht, 3-5 April.
Imagine a young mason or an ICT repair technician who has years of hands-on experience but lacks the formal certification to showcase their skills. Despite their technical know-how, they often miss out on opportunities for career advancement.
At MDF, we see leadership as the ability to make intentional choices. In this context, saying no is not about rejection, but about saying yes to what really matters. So how do leaders develop this skill? And what does it mean in practice?
Progress Markers can help you track stakeholder behaviour and demonstrate change in complex projects, even when outcome indicators show no progress.
MDF’s WASH project in Ghana transformed education by integrating gender equity, supporting student-parents with a crèche, and fostering leadership, creating lasting change in communities and institutions.
MDF Ghana drives sustainable development in West Africa through projects in education, entrepreneurship, and community support, creating jobs and empowering local businesses and individuals across the region.
MDF Kenya promotes growth in East Africa with projects in the blue economy, circularity, and refugee support, balancing professional expertise with a vibrant team culture focused on sustainable impact.
MDF Indonesia office drives regional impact through education projects, partnerships with international agencies, and a commitment to community well-being, shaping sustainable development across the Pacific-Indonesia region.
MDF Netherlands is where MDF’s journey began. Founded in 1984, this office created the foundation for MDF’s mission of "Empowering people, creating impact!"
Are we capturing all the factors that contribute to effective advocacy?
MDF marks 40 years of global impact, celebrating unity and collaboration across its international offices with a special anniversary video.
MDF Benin supports local communities through sustainable projects in education, land administration, and entrepreneurship, enhancing capacities in French-speaking West Africa.
Coaching sessions for BENTARA in Papua followed August’s leadership training, improving leadership, project management, and personal skills. These sessions also strengthened collaboration and engagement to address the community's needs.
Since 2014, MDF Bangladesh has been partnering with local communities to build skills and deliver impactful projects. We've formed strong connections and driven sustainable development across the country.
Learn tips to enhance online decision-making and foster collaboration in global teams using inclusive facilitation techniques.
Du 09 au 12 Juillet 2024, en marge de la réunion de directeurs de MDF, un cocktail dinatoire a été organisé réunissant les directeurs des bureaux de MDF d'Asie, d'Afrique, d'Europe ainsi que plusieurs partenaires et clients clés de son réseau.
From September 9-13, 2024, MDF facilitated a workshop at Lake Kivu Serena Hotel in Rwanda, helping WRI’s Restore Local program develop Theories of Change (ToC) and MEL plans to guide large-scale restoration efforts across Africa’s key landscapes.
In today’s fast-paced work environment, meetings are vital for collaboration and decision-making. But often, they drain time and energy. Imagine if your meetings were instead powerhouses of productivity!
MDF Myanmar, founded in 2016, supports local development through capacity building and partnerships. Despite challenges, the team of 10 remains committed to innovation, inclusivity, and expanding its impact on communities and education.
The TNA Validation Workshop was a significant event, gathering 40+ participants to discuss strategic planning and institutionalising training. Key insights will guide future ADB training sessions for lasting impact and sustainability.
MDF PI facilitated a two-day training on the Theory of Change (ToC) and Learning Agenda for USAID-supported projects. Participants from CHISU and CIPTA enhanced their skills in developing ToC frameworks aligned with USAID guidelines.
Learn about impact evaluation with MDF's mini online course, offering a practical preview of the comprehensive training available in our full programmes.
In regions with limited internet access, leading remote teams poses challenges. This article explores strategies to ensure effective communication and inclusive decision-making, even when connectivity is unreliable.
The MDF Democratic Republic of Congo office has played a vital role in MDF’s operations in the region. Through committed efforts in community development, capacity building, and strategic presence, the office has become a positive force in the area.
MDF T&C partnered with the Danish Refugee Council to evaluate their global strategy, uncovering critical insights and driving strategic growth. Explore how our collaborative approach transformed feedback into actionable plans for positive change.
MDF Eastern and Southern Africa, in collaboration with the National Industrial Training Authority (NITA), recently hosted a workshop to empower industry experts, practitioners, and stakeholders within the ICT Repair and Maintenance and Masonry trades
Open communication about work-life balance with colleagues can help alleviate stress and improve overall performance. Leaders play a key role in fostering a supportive environment that values well-being.
A training program for 30 Women Business Development Coaches in Sri Lanka, by MDF and the Ceylon Chamber of Commerce, enhanced skills in e-commerce, digital marketing, and more, empowering women and supporting Sri Lanka's economic recovery.
MDF in partnership with the National Industrial Training Authority (NITA), will be implementing a skills development project focused on RPL in ICT repair and maintenance and masonry trades.
The BOOST project, an initiative aimed at fostering a circular economy in Kenya, has recently concluded after four impactful years. With a focus on circularity, employment, entrepreneurship and skills development, it has achieved remarkable results.
MDF Asia conducted a successful Project Management training for the World Bank PFM MDTF from 27-29 May 2024 in Jakarta, enhancing skills in project planning and reporting. Participants found the methods effective, though some desired more time.
The mission of the joint work of MDF and ACER UK was to compile evidence for API strategies and support grant recipients to become more effective in implementing these advocacy and policy strategies.
This year, 2024, marks MDF's 40th anniversary of dedicated international work toward positive change for a better world. And to do so, MDF uses its pragmatic approach: "We don't invent theories, we make them work".
MDF evaluates Conservation International's Fellowship Programme, aiding its mission to empower environmental protection and support CI's sustainable, resilient journey.
MDF is set to design and lead the 2nd SEAMEO Workshop on MEL, focusing on enhancing the SEAMEO MEL Strategy with expert input and capacity building, ensuring its success through post-workshop evaluations.
To strengthen organisational efficiency and impact, MDF collaborates with the Union for the Mediterranean Secretariat. The main goal is to enhance the implementation of Results-Based Management and Monitoring and Evaluation practices.
To mark women's rights day in an exceptional way, MDF Benin through the Preparation Project for the Scaling of the National Cadastre, initiated the action "Investing in Women: Accelerating the Pace," bringing together women for high-level national tr
MDF is commissioned by the Asian Development Bank (ADB) to assist IRM's country operations team in creating a comprehensive training program. This program will address essential project aspects including the project cycle, management, and reporting.
Accra, Ghana – 7th March, 2024 – In a ceremony full of excitement and entrepreneurial spirit, Orange Corners Ghana, which is an initiative of the Netherlands, celebrated the graduation of 73 youth-led Businesses.
Opportunities to Serve as Women Led Business Management Coaches to support Sri Lankan MSMEs
Program: Applies Results-Based Management & Logical Framework Approach. Mixes face-to-face, online, and mentoring for comprehensive CSR Project Management understanding.
CTIF commissioned MDF to implement a groundbreaking project: "Building the Capacity of Women Business Development Coaches in Sri Lanka," in partnership with the Ceylon Chamber of Commerce (CCC).
MDF West Africa opens new office at 13 Kinshasa Avenue, East Legon. Richard Yeboah hands over directorship to Mr. Kwaku Owusu Afriyie and Mrs. Julia Anyanewaa Appiah. Celebrating growth, partnerships, and a future of positive impact!
At MDF, Michelle works as a trainer and an evaluator. She finds joy in the wide range of experiences her roles bring her. Every day is a chance to expand horizons, meet inspiring people, and broaden perspectives.
PERSONA partnered with MDF Bangladesh for this initiative to enhance leadership skills among Staff holding various roles like Executives, Section In-Charges, and Branch Assistants. Notably, over 90% of these remarkable participants were women.
Looking back, 2023 has been a significant year. We have completed over 300 assignments in training, advisory, facilitation, evaluations, and enterprise development. This success is thanks to the dedication and expertise of our diverse team.
In this interview, we sit down with Miriam Lindwer, Director MDF Myanmar to gain insights into what she personally finds fulfilling about her role, and the core values she believes other organizations should adopt.
In our interview with Julia Wendy Appiah, the Deputy Director and Program Manager of Orange Corners Ghana at MDF, we dive into a decade-long journey of promoting entrepreneurship and creating sustainable livelihoods.
Each of our trainers, evaluators, project managers, finance, acquisition and support teams play a unique role in the success of our work.This is why we are launching a series of branding content, focused on our people, where transformation begins.
The objective of DG ECHO for MDF was clear: develop and implement a blended train-the-trainer course for the EU MODEX, which includes an online module and in-person training sessions.
WorldFish commissioned the consortium of MDF Asia Myanmar and partners to conduct a Capacity Assessment, Organization Development Planning and Capacity Building with 10 pilot CBO/CSOs – 5 in Shan State and 5 in Kachin State.
Mombasa County finds itself at the epicenter of a daunting problem – as it's home to the highest concentration of plastic pollution along the entire Kenyan coast.
Avec le concours technique de MDF, AJCPE est entrain d'exécuter un projet sur la Gestion environnementale du camps de déplacés internes de Don Bosco Ngangi (Goma, RDC)
From September 15th to 16th, 2023, at the Ghana Innovation Hub, we hosted a motivating two-day Training of Trainers event. This session was expertly conducted by MDF West Africa trainers, namely Michael Osei Nkrumah and Ekow Akyin Kwofie.
MDF assure la gestion globale du projet PPMEC
With the help of MDF Asia (Indonesia office) Yayasan Hasanah refreshed and strengthened its M&E systems and processes and updated its Scorecard Framework. The assignment was carried out in the period September 2022 until August 2023.
MDF helped D4D facilitate a co-creation design workshop to support the launch of innovative start-ups with business ideas in the context of digitalisation in Africa.
MDF has worked on an exciting assignment for Wetlands International in the past year. They wanted to align their project management processes and procedures and support project managers from various countries in their work.
MDF supported the ASEAN Foundation in partnership with the Maybank Foundation in conducting capacity building for the participants of the Empowering Youths Across ASEAN (EYAA) initiative
UNICEF commissioned MDF in Bangladesh to develop the Master Trainers and Core Trainers on the module ‘Journey of Life’.
Sam's mission is to show people that change is possible and that effective tools and techniques can be applied to make a difference.
The BOOST project aimed to build a circular ecosystem in Mombasa, Kenya, empowering youth & women, creating jobs, and fostering sustainability with the support of various stakeholders and a matching grant from the Netherlands Enterprise Fund RVO.
We are delighted to share the remarkable success of the Ghana Innovation Hub's recent visit by the esteemed World Bank delegation, led by Managing Director Anna Bjerde.
Discover how the Orange Knowledge Program (OKP) is revolutionizing refugee education in Kenya with a groundbreaking partnership.
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