Challenges Facing Implementation Of Donor Support Projects In The Kenya National Highway Authority

Abstract

Donor funded transport and infrastructure support projects in Kenya are facing problems of delays in their life cycle of implementation therefore not successfully completed. The general objective of the study was to investigate the challenges facing implementation of donor support projects in the Kenya National Highway Authority. Specific objectives were to assess the influence of donors-imposed conditions, procurement related factors, project planning practices and stakeholders’ involvement on implementation of donor funded projects in Kenya National Highway Authority. The study used a descriptive survey research design. The study targeted 166 management level employees of Kenya National highway Authority at their head office in Nairobi County, the study sample was166 respondents. Primary data was collected using questionnaires. Quantitative data was analyzed using descriptive statistics, mean, frequency, percentage and standard deviations to describe the basic characteristics of the population. Inferential statistics were conducted using Pearson’s Product Moment correlation and multiple regression models to determine the nature of the relationship between the variables. The study found that conditions imposed by donors has positive influence on implementation of donor support projects. Procurement related factors was found to have positive influence on implementation of donor support projects. The study further found that project planning has positive influence on implementation of donor support projects. Stakeholders’ involvement was found to have positive influence on implementation of donor support projects. Based on the findings, the study concludes that an increase in conditions imposed by donors, procurement related factors, project planning and stakeholders’ involvement would result to improved implementation of donor support projects. The study thus recommends project managers to ensure they strictly adhere to the procedures and guidelines to ensure that they continue receiving the donor funds. The study also recommends project managers to ensure integrity of the procurement process: this can be achieved by developing procurement procedures and guidelines that must be adhered to. The study recommends project managers to conduct monitoring and evaluation during project implementation to ensure that funds allocated each activity are used as planned. The study thus recommends all stakeholders involved with the project, to be involved from the start i.e. project identification and initiation. Also, it is important to communicate to all stakeholders regarding the progress of the project.