Challenges of Institutional Capacity in implementing Strategic Plan Evaluation: A Case Study of Mbeya City Council

Abstract: Effective evaluation of strategic plans is the backbone of sustainable governance and development, yet many public institutions struggle to translate plans into measurable outcomes. This study explored the challenges faced by Mbeya City Council in evaluating its strategic plans, with a particular focus on institutional capacity. Strategic plan evaluation is crucial for ensuring the successful implementation of development goals, yet public institutions often encounter barriers such as limited financial resources, inadequate technical expertise, and organizational inefficiencies. This study investigated how institutional capacity influenced strategic plan evaluation in Mbeya City Council (MCC). Using an explanatory cross‑sectional design and quantitative approach, the study applied a stratified randomly by selecting a sample of 133 officials (from a ~200‑person population) across key departments. A structured Likert‑scale questionnaire captured perceptions of financial, human, technological, and structural capacity; data were analyzed in SPSS v26 with descriptive statistics and correlation/regression, after expert validation, pilot testing, and reliability checks (Cronbach’s alpha ≥0.70). Results showed capacity is uneven: 51.2% perceived adequate funding and 61.7% viewed the organizational structure as supportive, but only 47.3% affirm sufficient M&E training and 38.3% affirm adequate technology, with sizable neutral or negative responses indicating skill and infrastructure deficits. The study concluded that, gaps in M&E competencies and digital infrastructure constrain evaluation quality and evidence‑based decisions. Hence the study recommend earmarked M&E funding, structured capacity‑building, technology upgrades, and stronger cross‑departmental coordination to institutionalize robust, data‑driven evaluation practices so as to enhance and improve strategic plan evaluation in Mbeya City Council. Keywords: Institutional Capacity, Strategic Plan Evaluation, Mbeya City Council, Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E). Title: Challenges of Institutional Capacity in implementing Strategic Plan Evaluation: A Case Study of Mbeya City Council Author: Famili Tumaini Mshaghira International Journal of Social Science and Humanities Research ISSN 2348-3156 (Print), ISSN 2348-3164 (online) Vol. 13, Issue 4, October 2025 - December 2025 Page No: 86-94 Research Publish Journals Website: www.researchpublish.com Published Date: 12-October-2025 DOI: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.17333243 Paper Download Link (Source) https://www.researchpublish.com/papers/challenges-of-institutional-capacity-in-implementing-strategic-plan-evaluation-a-case-study-of-mbeya-city-council