Development and application of an integrated framework for evaluating malaria control programmes funded by the Global Fund: a narrative review of logical frameworks, logic models and theories of change

Abstract

Introduction: The effectiveness of malaria control programmes depends on robust planning, monitoring and evaluation systems. The Global Fund, the WHO and technical partners recommend the logical framework, the logic model and the theory of change. However, using them in isolation limits their complementarity and the quality of evaluations.

Methods: A narrative review of the literature based on scientific publications, methodological texts and institutional documents published between 2000 and 2025 (WHO, Global Fund, OECD, World Bank, UNICEF, UNDP). A comparative analysis identified the characteristics, advantages, limitations and complementarities of the three approaches, with a view to their application to the GC7 Malaria/Health System Strengthening (HSS) project in the DRC.

Results: The logical framework structures objectives, indicators and assumptions. The logic model visualises the results chain from inputs to outcomes. The theory of change sets out the causal mechanisms and conditions for success. Together, they form an integrated framework that enhances the coherence of planning, the relevance of monitoring and the interpretation of results.

Discussion: This integrated framework, which is innovative and tailored to current requirements, when applied to the GC7 Malaria/HSS project in the DRC, improves the quality of evaluations, evidence-based decision-making and the performance of malaria control interventions.

Keywords: logical framework; logic model; theory of change; programme evaluation; malaria.

Received Date: June 19, 2026

Accepted Date: July 10, 2026

Published Date: August 01, 2026

Available Online at: https://www.ijsrisjournal.com/index.php/ojsfiles/article/view/898