EIDM INNOVATION IN AFRICA #30: Measuring How Institutions Use Evidence for Better Policy

The Thandika Mkandawire Evidence Uptake Index (Mkandawire Index) is PACKS Africa’s flagship tool for diagnosing and strengthening evidence use in policymaking across Africa. Named in honour of the renowned Pan-African scholar Thandika Mkandawire, the Index provides a practical and adaptable way to assess how government and public sector institutions integrate evidence into decision-making. Developed from the Context Matters framework by Purpose & Ideas, the Index has evolved into a multi-organisational dashboard that blends diagnosis, advocacy, and capacity development — empowering institutions to reflect, learn, and reform. Learn more about the Mkandawire Index.