COMMUNITY PARTICIPATION STRATEGY AND PERFORMANCE OF NATIONAL GOVERNMENT CONSTITUENCY DEVELOPMENT FUND PROJECTS IN KENYA

Abstract

Understanding community participation and its influence on project performance is crucial for the success of National-Government Constituency Development Fund (NG-CDF) initiatives in Kenya. Despite existing studies suggesting the importance of leadership in improving project performance, there are challenges such as substandard workmanship and budget overruns affecting project performance. Community participation is essential for sustainable communal projects, yet it is often politicized, necessitating inclusive strategies to empower and engage diverse stakeholders. This study examined the influence of community participation strategies on the performance of NG-CDF projects in Kenya and was guided by stakeholder theory. The study employed a cross-sectional design to collect data from NG-CDF Fund Account Managers, Project Management Committee members and contractors, totalling 176,243 individuals. A sample size of 384 was determined using the Krejcie and Morgan formula, distributed among the three groups. Structured questionnaires were utilized for data collection to ensure consistency. The reliability of the tools was assessed using Cronbach's Alpha, while validity was confirmed through content and construct validation methods. Descriptive (frequencies, percentages, means and standard deviation) and inferential statistical (regressions and correlations) techniques were employed for data analysis, summarizing characteristics and making predictions about the population based on the sample data. Findings revealed that there was a strong agreement (37.9% to 60.1%) towards inclusive decision-making processes, needs assessment and clear communication plans. Notably, a majority (44.8% to 60.1%) recognized the openness of the decision-making process and the sharing of project benefits with the community, highlighting the importance of community participation strategy for enhanced performance of NG-CDF projects. The study concluded that community participation within Kenyan NG-CDF initiatives is important, stressing the imperative of transparent communication and the mitigation of participation obstacles to strengthen project relevance and lasting viability. This study recommends transparent communication and addressing participation barriers to enhance the relevance and sustainability of NG-CDF projects in Kenya.