Critical Success Factors and Implementation...

CRITICAL SUCCESS FACTORS AND IMPLEMENTATION OF ROAD PROJECTS
IN WAJIR COUNTY, KENYA
MUKTAR AHMED OSMAN
D53/OL/26752/2014
A RESEARCH PROJECT SUBMITTED TO THE SCHOOL OF BUSINESS IN

PARTIAL FULFILLMENT OF THE REQUIREMENTS FOR THE AWARD OF THE
DEGREE OF MASTER OF BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION (PROJECT
MANAGEMENT OPTION) OF KENYATTA UNIVERSITY
JULY, 2019
DECLARATION
This thesis is my original work and has not been submitted for a degree or other award in any
other learning institution. No part of this research project should be reproduced without the
authorization of the researcher or/and Kenyatta University.
Signature: ……………………………………… Date: ………………………
Muktar Ahmed Osman
D53/OL/26752/2014
This project has been submitted for examination with my approval as university supervisor
Signature: …………………………… Date: ………………………….
Ms. Gladys Kimutai
Lecturer, Department of Management Science
Kenyatta University
ii
DEDICATION
This research work is dedicated to my family and colleagues who have supported me in
successfully realizing this project.
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ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
I thank the Almighty Allah whom I can do all things. I wish to acknowledge my supervisor,
Ms. Gladys Kimutai for her invaluable support towards the execution and reporting of this
project. She is always ready to offer insight and make time for discussion in spite of her busy
schedule. I am also very grateful to my family for their moral and financial support, may
Allah bless them all.
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
DECLARATION ................................................................................................................ II
DEDICATION .................................................................................................................. III
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS .............................................................................................. IV
TABLE OF CONTENTS ................................................................................................... V
LIST OF FIGURES .......................................................................................................... IX
LIST OF TABLES ............................................................................................................. X
ABBREVIATIONS AND ACRONYMS .......................................................................... XI
OPERATIONAL DEFINITION OF TERMS................................................................ XII
ABSTRACT.................................................................................................................... XIV
CHAPTER ONE ................................................................................................................. 1
INTRODUCTION ............................................................................................................... 1
1.1 Background of the Study ................................................................................................. 1
1.1.1 Project Implementation ............................................................................................. 2
1.1.2 Organizational Contextual Factors and Implementation of Road Projects ................. 3
1.1.3 Road Construction Projects in Wajir County............................................................. 4
1.2 Statement of the Problem ................................................................................................ 5
1.3 General Objective of the Study ........................................................................................ 6
1.3.1 Specific Objectives of the Study ............................................................................... 7
1.4 Research Questions ......................................................................................................... 7
1.5 Significance of the Study................................................................................................. 7
1.6 Scope of the Study........................................................................................................... 9
1.7 Limitations of the Study .................................................................................................. 9
1.8 Organization of the Study .............................................................................................. 10
CHAPTER TWO .............................................................................................................. 11
LITERATURE REVIEW ................................................................................................. 11
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2.1 Introduction ................................................................................................................... 11
2.2 Theoretical Review ....................................................................................................... 11
2.2.1 Theory of Project Management ............................................................................... 11
2.2.2 Participatory Development Theory ......................................................................... 12
2.2.3 Program Theory...................................................................................................... 13
2.3 Empirical Review .......................................................................................................... 15
2.3.1 Contractors’ Competencies/Capacity and Implementation of Road Projects ............ 15
2.3.2 Resource Mobilization and Implementation of Road Projects ................................. 16
2.3.3 Target Beneficiary Participation and Implementation of Road Projects ................... 19
2.3.4 Political Goodwill and Governance and Implementation of Road Projects .............. 20
2.3.5 M&E and Implementation of Road Projects ............................................................ 23
2.4 Summary of Literature and Research Gaps .................................................................... 25
2.5 Conceptual Framework ................................................................................................. 26
CHAPTER THREE .......................................................................................................... 28
RESEARCH METHODOLOGY ..................................................................................... 28
3.1 Introduction ................................................................................................................... 28
3.2 Research Design ............................................................................................................ 28
3.3 Target Population .......................................................................................................... 28
3.4 Sample Size and Sampling Procedures .......................................................................... 29
3.5 Data Collection Instrument and Procedures ................................................................... 30
3.6 Pilot Testing .................................................................................................................. 31
3.6.1 Validity of the Instrument ....................................................................................... 31
3.6.2 Reliability of the Instrument ................................................................................... 31
3.7 Data Analysis and Presentation...................................................................................... 32
3.8 Ethical Considerations ................................................................................................... 33
CHAPTER FOUR ............................................................................................................. 34
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RESEARCH FINDINGS AND DISCUSSIONS .............................................................. 34
4.1 Introduction ................................................................................................................... 34
4.2 Response Rate ............................................................................................................... 34
4.3 Demographic Information of the Respondents. .............................................................. 34
4.3.1 Gender of the Respondents ..................................................................................... 34
4.3.2 Age Bracket of the Respondents ............................................................................. 35
4.3.3 Highest Level of Education of the Respondents ...................................................... 36
4.3.4 Position within the County Government ................................................................. 36
4.3.5 Years Served in the Stated Position......................................................................... 37
4.4 Descriptive Analysis...................................................................................................... 38
4.4.6 Implementation of Road Projects in Wajir County .................................................. 43
4.5 Inferential Statistics ....................................................................................................... 44
4.5.1 Correlation Analysis ............................................................................................... 44
4.5.2 Regression Analysis ............................................................................................... 46
CHAPTER FIVE............................................................................................................... 50
SUMMARY OF FINDINGS, CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS ........... 50
5.1 Introduction ................................................................................................................... 50
5.2 Summary ....................................................................................................................... 50
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5.3 Conclusions ................................................................................................................... 52
5.4 Recommendations ......................................................................................................... 53
5.5 Suggestions for Further Research .................................................................................. 54
REFERENCES .................................................................................................................. 55
APPENDICES ................................................................................................................... 61
Appendix I: Questionnaire .................................................................................................. 61
Appendix II: Authorization for Data Collection ................................................................... 68
Appendix III: Research Permit ............................................................................................ 69
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LIST OF FIGURES
Figure 2.1: Conceptual Framework ..................................................................................... 27

Figure 4.1: Gender of the Respondents ................................................................................ 35
Figure 4.2: Age Bracket of the Respondents ........................................................................ 35
Figure 4.3: Highest level of Education................................................................................. 36
Figure 4.4: Position within the County Government ............................................................ 37
Figure 4.5: Years Served in the Stated Position ................................................................... 38
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LIST OF TABLES
Table 3.1: Target Population ............................................................................................... 29

Table 3.2: Sample Size ........................................................................................................ 30
Table 3.3: Reliability Analysis ............................................................................................ 32
Table 4.1: Response Rate .................................................................................................... 34
Table 4.2: Contractors’ Competencies/Capacity .................................................................. 39
Table 4.3: Resource Mobilization ........................................................................................ 40
Table 4.4: Target Beneficiary Participation ......................................................................... 41
Table 4.5: Political Goodwill and Governance..................................................................... 42
Table 4.6: M&E .................................................................................................................. 43
Table 4.7: Implementation of Road Projects in Wajir County .............................................. 44
Table 4.8: Correlation Matrix .............................................................................................. 45
Table 4.9: Model Summary ................................................................................................. 46
Table 4.10: ANOVA Results ............................................................................................... 47
Table 4.11: Regression Coefficients .................................................................................... 47
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ABBREVIATIONS AND ACRONYMS
ALGA Australian Local Government Association
CBWPs Community Based Water Projects
CDF Consistency Development Funds
ERS Economic Recovery Strategy
GoK Government of Kenya
IMF International Monetary Fund
M&E Monitoring and Evaluation
NCA National Construction Authority
PRA Participatory Rural Appraisal
SDGs Sustainable Development Goals
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OPERATIONAL DEFINITION OF TERMS
Contractors’ Competencies/Capacity This means the experience and technical skills,

knowledge and integrity, decision making capabilities
and the financial power of road contractors in the
county which ensure that the contractors have the
essentials required to undertake road projects in the
county.
Governance refers to the formal and informal arrangements in the

county that determine how public decisions pertaining
to road projects are undertaken so that constitutional
values are maintained in the face of changing problems,
actors and environments.
Monitoring and Evaluation This is the frequent collection of relevant control data or
information to ensure quality roads are constructed
according to plan, the design and quality in the county.
Political Goodwill it refers to having in place political measures that will

positively or negatively influence and expedite the
implementation of high quality standards through the
enactment of favourable laws that facilitate the
allocation of sufficient funds and also mitigate
bureaucratic tendencies in the handing of tenders to
road project contractors
Resource Mobilization It denotes the capacity of the county government to

provide adequate funds towards road projects, adopt
efficient financing methods and its capacity to mobilize
the finances for successfully implementing road projects
from diverse sources.
Road Projects These are the projects which are mandated to improve
or open up a new road for certain areas in the county to
meet the needs of the local community/residents.
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Target Beneficiary Participation This is the process during which the persons or the
communities that utilize the road project outputs in the
county are consulted about or have an opportunity to
become actively involved in the road projects and
related activities.
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ABSTRACT
Despite the fact that the street system has improved since the district government came into
spot, a large portion of the streets are still rendered closed amid stormy season therefore
abridging all developments by street inside the region. Wajir County is one of the counties
facing with poor road conditions whereby during the rainy season the county is cut-off from
the rest of the country. Even though the First County Integrated Development Plan 2013-
2017 showed that 40 projects aimed at improving the road conditions had been proposed, the
County Annual Development Plan 2016/17 showed that only 4 of these were ongoing and the
rest were behind schedule. This raised issues pertaining to the commitment of the County
Government which continued to propose new road projects when a large number of the
previously stipulated projects were yet to be implemented. The study sought to examine the
influence of contractors’ competencies/capacity, resource mobilization, target beneficiary
participation, political goodwill and governance and M&E on the implementation of road
projects in Wajir County. The study was founded on the theory of project management,
participatory development theory and the program theory. The study targeted 5 county
officials under the transport and infrastructure department, 280 project management
committee members drawn from the various road projects in the county, 27 registered road
contractors involved in the various road projects in the county as well as 300 local
community leaders representing the local residents who are the target beneficiaries of road
projects drawn from various project and development committees in the county. The study
used primary data collected using a structured questionnaire. The data collected was analysed
using quantitative method. The study found that contractors’ competencies/capacity, resource
mobilization, target beneficiary participation, political goodwill and governance and
monitoring and evaluation had a significant positive impact on the extent to which road
projects were implemented in Wajir County. It was reported that resource mobilization had
the largest influence on the the degree to which the road projects in the county were
implemented followed by contractors’ competencies/capacity and then M&E. The study
concluded that if the county was to witness improved implementation of road projects in the
county, emphasis had to be placed on enhancing the level of contractors’
competencies/capacity, resource mobilization, target beneficiary participation, political
goodwill and governance and M&E throughout the project lifecycles. The study recommends
the need for established system where the details and track records of road contactors are kept
and integrated so that tracking of their delivery is made easy. The study further recommends
that the county government should devise innovative ways of raising extra local funds to
supplement the total funds from the central government and there should be diversification of
sources of funding for road projects.
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CHAPTER ONE
INTRODUCTION
1.1 Background of the Study
The pace at which any nation is growing economically can be measured by its development.
This pace can be evaluated in very many ways including physical infrastructures for instance,
roads. A key factor that ensures economic development is adequate supply of infrastructure.
This is evident in academic literature (Margolies & Moreira, 2012) and also the policy debate
(World Bank, 2016). Academic research works have been done to gauge the contribution of
infrastructure development to growth and productivity. These research works had taken place
in the last two decades and their emphasis was on theoretical and empirical analysis. In the
recent past, the impact of infrastructure on poverty and inequality has been considered
(Calderón & Servén, 2010; 2014).
A noteworthy limitation to working together is poor framework. This was recognized in the
Economic Recovery Strategy (ERS) for Wealth and Employment Creation 2003-07.
Framework has additionally been perceived as a supported advancement under the monetary
column by the Kenya Vision 2030. Financial development, destitution decrease just as riches
and work creation have been credited to the presence of good and well-working street
organize. In this manner, the fulfillment of the 'Vision 2030' objectives, Sustainable
Development Goals and Kenya's Economic Recovery Strategy for Wealth and Employment
Creation Strategy very rely upon the Ministry of Roads. The service can help in the
achievement of these objectives by giving essential offices to residents through the
improvement, support, restoration and the administration of all street arranges in the country
(Mbaabu, 2012).
Priority in infrastructure development has been directed to the major road projects whose
implementation is as stipulated in the ‘economic pillar’. Road transport caters for 80% of all
cargo and passengers in the country (Roads Service Charter, 2008). This shows the
immediacy of having improved roads to a better condition is vital. The government has in the
past increased the budget allocation to the road-sector due to its importance in both the social
and economic development in the nation. The roads function is a shared responsibility with
the introduction of devolution in the country. The responsibilities of the national government
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are constructing and maintaining national trunk roads. The county roads are catered for by the
county government (Kajwang, 2016). Counties are now in a better position to deliver social
services as they deal with specific challenges and have the local knowledge to address them
unlike the national government. The specificity in the challenges has enabled the county
governments to set aside funds that are required in constructing, rehabilitating and
maintaining of roads in the county.
Agyeman (2010) points out that tasks ID and usage have been the center operational focus of
practically all the world's administration and governments since old occasions. With the rise
of reverted government, it is conceivable to improve proficiency and viability of interior
undertakings inside the County government and to migrate taxpayer driven organizations
from focal government workplaces to County closer to the residents. As indicated by UNDP
(2012), basic instances of how devolution of activities was basic is as yet basic on the planet
today are exemplified by the Egyptian and Syrian antiquated agrarian periods. ALGA (2010)
in support to this argues that for projects to benefit the total population of every country,
devolution and decentralization of operations and implementation of projects is inevitable
and has to be taken into reality. Managerial and organizational problems have been known to
hinder the achievement of these goals. Studies have proven this theory (Ika, Diallo, &
Thuillier, 2012).
1.1.1 Project Implementation
A significant factor that determines whether a project will be fruitful or not is how the project
plan was implemented (Beleiu, Crisan & Nistor, 2015). Project implementation can be
viewed as a complex process that comprises of multiple variables which influence
implementation. These variables include; resource management, operational systems, the
culture cultivated in the organization as well as the organization’s leadership (Odoyo, 2013).
The sequence displayed by the project cycle depends on how projects are designed, planned
and implemented (Chikati, 2009). Implementing a project is more challenging compared to
any other activity in the project work. This is according to Maritim (2013).
The most exceptional issues in task the board and a regular topic of talk is venture
achievement. The World Bank (2013) characterizes a task as an endeavor that takes in
sources of info and gives out yields that are wanted by a gathering of individuals or and
individual inside a given timeframe. Undertakings extend from the administration/open
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supported infrastructural offices like streets, power, railroad lines, lodging units, enterprises
and so forth to little run individual endeavors like retail organizations overseen by a couple of
individuals in a state or network (Kaliba, Muya, and Mumba, 2009).
Projects have a definite lifecycle. This is according to World Bank (2013) where a project
marks its end when all objectives have been met. A pattern set out in BS6079 is followed in
medium to large projects. Projects that go through a life cycle that is complete, within the
budget and on time satisfies the technical performance objective (Makori, 2015). A complete
project transforms project resources to a product, service or organization process. Also, a
complete project becomes part of an inventory of capability provided by the organization
which has the project ownership (Stretton, 2010).
At the point when an undertaking is on calendar (time model), is inside the monetary
allowance (cost rule) and accomplishes fundamentally all the set objectives that are set in the
initial stage (adequacy foundation) is commonly viewed as effectively actualized. This task is
likewise recognized and exploited by the customer for whom the venture is planned
(customer fulfillment model) (Githenya and Ngugi, 2014). A venture incorporates a
characterized time allotment to be finished, a constrained spending plan and a predetermined
arrangement of execution qualities is the essential meaning of an undertaking (Nkansah,
2012). The target for these projects are the consumers.
1.1.2 Organizational Contextual Factors and Implementation of Road Projects
Implementers play a great role in the implementation of projects and are directed by the
project committee and executive members. Implementers are responsible for identifying the
project’s internal forces (strengths and weaknesses) and external forces (opportunities and
threats) (Mahianyu, 2016). The positive forces which are strengths and opportunities should
be exploited in order to efficiently implement a project. The hindrances that a project can face
are the project’s weaknesses and threats. It is therefore important for the implementers to
device a way of avoiding them. It is also advisable to have solutions for these hindrances
even before they happen (Kagendo, 2013).
The condition that tasks are generally started are of violent, capricious and dynamic nature
(Gundersen, Hellesøy, and Raeder, 2012). Ventures face numerous difficulties, requirements
and dangers from the usage of their arrangements to their consummation. This is because of
the condition that encompasses them. In an examination done previously, demonstrated that
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inappropriate arranging, open intrusions and asset deficits are weaknesses that are caused
amid usage period. These weaknesses incorporate; temporary worker issues, lacks in capital,
misfortunes amid the readiness and endorsement of illustrations, budgetary challenges of
contractual workers and change of requests. These reason serious postponements in many
nations around the globe (Long et al., 2008; Yang et al., 2013). Munano distinguishes
deficient assets, non-execution by the temporary worker and deferred installments as the
serious issues influencing venture conveyance in Kenya.
Many projects fall short of expectations despite the significant input of human and financial
resources. Many project owners do not get satisfied with the end result because at times their
basic priorities are not met, costs escalate or stated outputs are not achieved. If they are
achieved the proposed requirements are not sustained, implementations dates are not accurate
as agreed or adverse outcomes were not anticipated (Nakhumicha & Macharia, 2017).
Obstacles or poor planning causes costs to escalate or the project ends up being blocked
altogether by the project owner.
1.1.3 Road Construction Projects in Wajir County
Kenyan road projects continue to face various challenges. These challenges are; delays in
completing the projects, escalated costs, pulling down of residential estates and businesses as
well as failed works (Maina, 2013). The North Eastern part of Kenya is highly marginalized
both geographically and in history. During the rainy seasons, this part of the country cannot
be accessed. This is due to the poor roads. During the dry seasons, it takes an average of
72hours to reach Mandera via Isiolo from Nairobi. The distance between the two towns is
983km. In sparsely populated areas, the road network is less. The North Eastern counties of
Isiolo (25,336km2), Wajir (55,840km2), Mandera (25,798km2) and Garissa (45,720km2)
cover a total area of approximately 152,694km2. This is approximately 26% of Kenya’s land
mass. All these counties when combined have a road network of only 9,386km which
translate to 6% of the total road network in the country. This is predominantly unpaved
(World Bank, 2016).
Out of 5,280km road network, Wajir county had a total of 1640km graveled roads as at 2015.
The other parts of the road networks are considered earthen and classified. There is no
presence of tarmac road or rail network. Despite the poor state of the county’s road network,
road still remains the most common mode of transport to its citizens. All feeder road
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networks are in a poor state. Movement is minimized or completely cut-off during the rainy
seasons in the county. Drifts are used around the laggas instead of bridges. This is because
the county does not have proper bridges which are rendered impassible during floods hence
the high need of proper bridges. Markets are inaccessible during the rainy seasons due to the
poor infrastructure. There are huge loses of agricultural products and livestock since they
cannot reach the market. A big hindrance to market access and also price trends are caused by
inadequate market information.
As a result, the county had taken measures to reverse or at least improve the condition. The
First County Integrated Development Plan 2013-2017 showed that 40 projects aimed at
improving the road conditions were proposed. The County Annual Development Plan
2016/17 showed that all of these were yet to be fully implemented. The Plan showed that
only 4 out of the 40 road projects were ongoing and that even though a large number of the
projects were stipulated to be implemented in the 2015/2016 financial year, they were yet to
start. Hence, it was important to conduct an assessment of factors which led to the slow
progress in the implementation of these projects.
1.2 Statement of the Problem
The government and citizens are concerned as most projects fail at the implementation stage.
Road projects in Kenya are seldom completed within the stipulated timeframe. Most of them
get completed as late as between 2-5 years later or even end up stalled (Ministry of Planning,
2014). The completion of most of the road projects in Kenya hangs in the balance due to a
combination of shoddy work characterized by inadequately funded and ill-equipped
contractors compromising the quality of work being done, running behind schedule and
having high cost overruns (GoK, 2015; Nyabaro, 2015). Many roads record poor
performance at the end in the past (Njenga, 2014).
Wajir County is one of the county that faces the hardest conditions during the seasons as most
roads are completely impassible. It is even cut-off from the rest of the country. Despite the
poor state of the roads, they remain the most common mode of transport in the county. There
has been a slight improvement on the road networks since the devolved government came
into place. However, most roads cannot be accessed during the rainy seasons hindering
movement in the county. With the emergence of devolution in Kenya, it was expected
5
improved efficiency and effectiveness of delivering social services would be achieved within
counties. However, this has not been the case.
The welfare of the Wajir residents is impacted negatively due to the situation. Markets are
inaccessible during the rainy seasons due to the poor infrastructure. There are huge loses of
agricultural products and livestock since they cannot reach the market. A big hindrance to
market access and also price trends are caused by inadequate market information (Wajir
County Government, 2016).
Even though the First County Integrated Development Plan 2013-2017 showed that 40
projects aimed at improving the road conditions had been proposed, the County Annual
Development Plan 2016/17 showed that only 4 of these were ongoing and the rest were
behind schedule. This raised issues pertaining to the commitment of the County Government
which continued to propose new road projects when a large number of the previously
stipulated projects were yet to be implemented. The Plan showed that 12 new road projects/
programs had been proposed and were to be implemented in FY 2016/17. Furthermore, an
assessment of one of the flagship projects for upgrading of roads within the Wajir Township
showed that there was slow progress and the projects were behind schedule and that some of
contract payments way before work was done resulting in overpayment of the contract sum.
Hence, it was important to conduct an assessment of the factors within the County which led
to the slow progress in the implementation of these projects.
A performance and implementation of road projects in Kenya have been reviewed in the
existing literature. However, some of the close studies for instance that of Mbaabu (2012),
Oguya and Muturi (2016) and Kinaro (2015) focused on road projects under the mandate of
the national government. Other such as that of Njenga (2014) and Nianjun (2014), even
though they found on projects within the county of Nairobi and Nyeri south sub-county
respectively, the focus was more on the construction sector. Literature on the implementation
of county projects for roads in Wajir County was scantly done. This motivated the carrying
out of this study.
1.3 General Objective of the Study
The purpose of this study was to assess the critical success factors in the implementation of
road projects in Wajir County, Kenya.
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1.3.1 Specific Objectives of the Study
The following specific objectives guided the study;
i. To examine the influence of contractors’ competencies/capacity on implementation of

road projects in Wajir County.
ii. To establish the influence of resource mobilization on implementation of road projects in

Wajir County.
iii. To determine the influence of target beneficiary participation on implementation of road

projects in Wajir County.
iv. To explore the influence of political goodwill and governance on implementation of road
projects in Wajir County.
v. To find out the influence of M&E on implementation of road projects in Wajir County.
1.4 Research Questions
The study was guided by the following research questions: -
i. To what extent did contractor’s competency/capacity influence implementation of road

projects in Wajir County?
ii. What was the influence of project resource mobilization on implementation of road
iii. To what extent did target beneficiary participation influence implementation of rod
iv. How did political good will and governance influence implementation of road projects in
Wajir County?
v. What was the influence of M&E on implementation of road projects in Wajir County?
1.5 Significance of the Study
The study findings would be of great benefit to the county officers dealing with issues
pertaining to public participation in Wajir County by highlighting the level of
beneficiaries’/residents’ participation in the county projects particularly road projects. It
would highlight the phases in which these residents are involved by the county government in
the projects’ lifecycle besides offering suggestions on corrective measures and
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strategies/approaches for ensuring effective involvement of the residents in the projects
targeted at them.
The study would be beneficial in highlighting the loopholes in the M&E of the projects under
study and how the implementation of the road projects in the county. The study would
highlight the M&E tools and processes currently used and their efficiency in guaranteeing
smooth executon of road projects in the county. These findings would go a long way in
assisting the county officers in the Transport and Infrastructure and the project managers in
the county on ways they could develop a comprehensive framework for strengthening
existing M&E systems in the county.
The study would be resourceful in gauging the county capacity to mobilize resources needed
to undertake infrastructure projects particularly road projects. Based on the study
recommendations, the county government officials would be enlightened on various resource
mobilization and management strategies that could be adopted to raise the funds needed to
see the outlined county road projects to completion. It would also enlighten donors and other
development partners on the roles they could play in advancing the road infrastructure in the
county.
The study findings would be crucial in revealing the competency and capacity of road
contractors in Wajir County. The study would benefit the tendering officials involved in the
selection of road contractors by showing them the manner in which their selection choices
affected the implementation of road projects in the county. The findings would be an eye
opener on the most effective selection criteria to use when selecting road contractors.
The study would benefit the county government officials in political offices by enlightening
them on how their political interests affected the implementation of infrastructure projects in
the county and ways in which they could attain a balance between their interests and that of
various stakeholders in the county.
The study would lead to the expansion of research knowledge in this study area and the
findings could provoke further research in the area. It would act as a reference point for
researchers undertaking related research in this area.
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1.6 Scope of the Study
The study was confined to assessing the critical success factors in implementing road projects
in Wajir County. The focus of the study was on the influence of; contractors’ competency or
capacity, project resource mobilization, target beneficiary participation, politics good will and
governance and M&E in implementing road projects in Wajir County. The study focused on
the road projects stipulated for 2013-2017. The target population consisted of the project
management committee members drawn from the various projects, contractors involved in
various road projects in the county, residents targeted in the road projects as well as the
county officials under the transport and infrastructure department. The study was embarked
on in 2018.
1.7 Limitations of the Study
There are different confinements that were looked in this examination. The idea of the
request called for classified data contacting significantly on key regions of the region
government activities and furthermore the board and henceforth because of the dread of
exploitation and occasions where the data given could be utilized against them, a portion of
the investigation members showed reluctance to give critical data that was required in the
request. The specialist dealt with this obstacle through guaranteeing the investigation
members that the data was secret and gathered only for scholarly purposes.
The scientist confronted jumps in getting to a portion of the members who were senior
administration workers and had occupied timetables. The alleviation for this test was by
booking meeting with the examination members ahead of time before the surveys could be
dropped through the help of two research aides. The earlier learning relating the region
activities could prompt sentiments that were pre considered given that the scientist was an
inhabitant of Wajir County. This was probably going to prompt biasness in determination of
techniques just as during the time spent drafting addresses which could thusly influence the
discoveries of the request. The scientist guaranteed that they stayed engaged and objective all
through the investigation to counter this test. This was by mulling over other specialists'
perspectives and discoveries. The other method to counter the test was by thinking about the
remarks of the venture manager. The help of research aides in gathering data was additionally
utilized.
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Another limitation encountered was time and cost constraints while undertaking the data
collection. To overcome the limitation, the researcher contracted two research assistants. This
was also mitigated by using carefully structured questionnaires to collect responses from
various study participants; direct questions were used so as to minimize on the time taken to
collect the field data. Time competition with other urgent tasks was also a constraint in the
study. To ensure that time was used well, carefully drafting a detailed schedule was given top
priority.
1.8 Organization of the Study
This study encompasses five chapters. Chapter one was the introduction which highlighted
the major variables in the study, gave a general background and their connection to the
context of the study.
Chapter two deals with scholarly works on the study area. It discussed the theories
underpinning the study and the existing empirical studies in the study area. It also provided a
critique of existing literature and summarized the research gaps. The conceptual framework
was also presented.
Chapter three highlights the methodology applied in this study. This entailed the design of the
study, the population of the study, methods used in collecting the data, research procedures,
data analysis, presentation as well as the ethical issues that the researcher considered while
undertaking the study.
Chapter four outlined how data was analyzed, results presented and discussion of findings
according to the data collected.
Chapter five encompassed the summary of major findings in relation to the study objectives,
conclusion and recommendations of the study. References and appendices were presented at
the end of the project.
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CHAPTER TWO
LITERATURE REVIEW
2.1 Introduction
Chapter two of this study aimed at navigating on existing scholarly works on critical success
factors in implementing road projects in Wajir County. The theories underpinning the study
were outlined. The existing current empirical studies undertaken in this study area were
discussed and critiqued so researchers could explore on the gaps. A framework showing the
major study concepts was also crafted.
2.2 Theoretical Review
2.2.1 Theory of Project Management
Project Management as upheld in PMBOK by PMI was investigated by Koskela and Howell
(2002). As indicated by their examination, the establishment was partitioned into two:
hypothesis of the executives and hypothesis of venture which includes change see on task that
conceptualizes extends as change of contributions to yields. The examination clarifies the
discoveries of various standards of how an undertaking can be dealt with.
The recommendation of one of the standards is disintegrating the absolute change

progressively into littler changes, undertakings and limiting the expense of each errand
autonomously. The board sketched out by Koskela and Howell (2002) is clarified in three
hypotheses; indoor regulator model, dispatching model and the board as-arranging. The
executives as-arranging comprised of creation, update and plan the board. It is a key factor of
activity in the board and hierarchical results. Dispatching model assumed the job of arranged
undertaking can be executed by only warning from the errand agent. Third was the indoor
regulator model which assumed a noteworthy job of standard execution which was estimated
by yield.
As per Koskela and Howell (2002), standard and measure is utilized to address the procedure
so to fulfill the guideline esteem. Undertaking the executives is a cycle that perspectives a
venture life cycle as comprising of task configuration, arranging, usage, checking and control,
commencement and undertaking conclusion (PMI, 2013). Under the present investigation,
Wajir County street ventures' needed to experience through an actual existence cycle where
11
they were started, structured, arranged and actualized. The tasks are encouraged and financed
by givers and citizens. The Kenyan citizen undertaking funds should be utilized adequately to
empower effective execution of the province street ventures. It is additionally contended that
it is clear that various determinants are equipped for affecting the usage of tasks if not
maneuvered carefully. These incorporate among others late payment of venture reserves,
inability to include partners and residents, political obstruction, utilization of inept task
supervisors, temporary workers and staff, and heightening of expenses because of swelling
among others. The consummation of the street extends in Wajir County is subject to the
accomplishment of the anticipated yields as outlined by the task the board hypothesis.
This hypothesis was pertinent in this investigation since it featured how a few variables
among them anticipate reserves, temporary workers' ability/competency, inclusion of target
recipients and legislative issues affected the existence cycle of activities which undertaking
execution is a piece of. Hence, this hypothesis upheld the general goal of the examination
which was to evaluate the basic achievement factors in the execution of street extends in
Wajir County.
2.2.2 Participatory Development Theory
Chambers (1997) opined that participatory advancement hypothesis tries to guarantee the
consideration of nearby recipients of an open framework venture into the exercises of the
undertaking execution. Further that the task's participatory arranging must think about the
neighborhood populace which for this situation are the Wajir area inhabitants to the empower
the open foundation improvement (province street ventures) usage achievement. Mohan
(2008) then again sees that participatory advancement hypothesis advances the improvement
of proficiency and viability of formal open foundation improvement programs and the outside
and the neighborhood entertainers of the venture must be included.
This hypothesis as indicated by Chambers (1997) accordingly gadgets a methods for

arranging being developed at the neighborhood level which must include the nearby networks
and uses different arranging devices which incorporates the Participatory Rural Appraisal
(PRA) as one of the formal arranging instruments. Chambers include that by getting ready for
tasks and particularly in decayed frameworks of administration causes a move in power
relations by valorizing voices that generally go unheard by political advancement bunches as
it looks to incorporate the uneducated, poor, minimized individuals and all gatherings to
12
speak to claim lives and employments influenced by the activities. Participatory Development
hypothesis consequently, as per Mohan (2008) expands the neighborhood population's, who
are additionally the nearby beneficiaries of the ventures, capacity to act naturally deciding in
the execution of the open foundation extends for this situation region street ventures.
The hypothesis shaped the reason for the third goal of the examination which looked to
decide the impact of target recipient on the execution of bar extends in Wajir County. The
hypothesis was essential in featuring the way in which the Wajir County inhabitants who
were the objective recipients in these street tasks could be associated with the whole
procedure of executing these activities and how such endeavor upheld the achievement of
these undertakings.
2.2.3 Program Theory
Assessment done by distinguishing key program components and articulating how these
components are relied upon to identify with one another is guided by Program Theory
(Donaldson and Lipsey, 2003). The estimation of the degree and nature of every component's
event is finished by making arrangements of information gathering inside the system. The
information is investigated inside the structure once gathered. Information gathered from
various sources or through various techniques from a similar program component id as a
matter of first importance triangulated. A model exhibited by (Donaldson and Lipsey, 2003).
Stake (1967) tries to portray the expected predecessors (whatever should be before a program
is operational), exchanges (exercises and yields), and results of a program. A correlation is
done between what was proposed and what the models are for that sort of program in the
information of the program in activity. A suggestion of utilizing way charts to demonstrate
the arrangements of ventures between a projects' mediation and the ideal results was
proposed by Weiss (1972). The evaluator can recognize the variable to incorporate into the
assessment on account of this model. This model additionally encourages one find the chain
of occasions separates from the grouping and remain in accordance with the adjustments in
the program usage that may influence the example portrayed in the model.
The assessment practice today in the development of a conceivable and reasonable model of
how a program should function is characterized by Program Theory (Pilcher, 2012). It
additionally characterizes how the change on information and yield in the arrangement of
recommendations and what goes on operating at a profit box. That is, the changes of an awful
13
circumstance to a superior one through treatment inputs (Lipsey, 1993). The procedure
through which the program segments are dared to influence results is another approach to
take a gander at it.
Program hypothesis comprises of the authoritative arrangement which manages how to

gather, design, convey assets and how to sort out program exercises. This definition is by
Rossi (2004) refered to by Pilcher (2012). This is with the goal that the planned
administration framework is created and kept up. This arrangement sees how expected target
populace gets the proposed measure of the planned intercession is the other way that manages
administration usage. This is done through program administration conveyance framework.
The proposed mediations for the predefined target populace achieve the ideal social
advantages (impacts) is likewise taken a gander at in the hypothesis.
Focal points of the hypothesis dependent on structure that expects to screen and assess
incorporates having the option to ascribe ventures results to explicit undertakings is
recognized by Rogers, as refered to by Patton (2008). He likewise recognizes unforeseen and
undesired program or venture results. In this manner, the evaluator is empowered to explain
why and how the program is functioning as indicated by based assessments.
There is a great deal of perplexity brought about by endeavoring to personally connection

observing and assessment in undertaking the executives capacities (Crawford and Bryce,
2003; Patton, 2008). The two are unmistakable yet reciprocal. In assessment practice, this
hypothesis assumes a few significant jobs. Introductory needs evaluation and program
configuration can be met through hypothesis and earlier research. Learning may turn up about
successful techniques for managing issues by a cautious examination of accessible writing
which incorporates essential investigations. Program creators' time and assets might be
spared from the exercises on what works and what does not work.
The theory gave the framework for monitoring and evaluating road projects which makes it
relevant. It also explained the importance of this exercise in ensuring that projects were
implanted in the proper manner. In this case, Wajir County.
14
2.3 Empirical Review
2.3.1 Contractors’ Competencies/Capacity and Implementation of Road Projects
Opuch (2016) assessed the manner in which project completion was affected by local
contractors’ performance management in the case of the Uganda National Roads Authority
Lira Station. The study employed a cross-sectional survey design which adopted mixed
methods. The study found that technical capacity, selection criteria and the financial capacity
of contractors affected the completion of road project under study. The study found that
contractors were judged according to their performance, their ability to manage resources,
improve employee capabilities through training, time management and ability to work as a
team. The study found that contractor’s performance affected the stakeholders’ satisfaction,
timely delivery and quality of work undertaken.
Mydin, Sani, Taib, and Mohd (2014) evaluated and identified the findings and the aftermath
of delayed project in Malaysia in private housing development project. The study was based
on an online survey involving several developers. The study found that financial problems of
the contractor were a cause of delay in the projects under study. The results revealed that
after the contractors received advance monthly payment it led to the delay of the project
because their started to work on other projects. The study also found that contractor
coordination projects with other parties were also a cause of delays. Another cause of delays
in projects was poor management skills from the contractor. The delay led to time overrun,
differences in opinion, cost overrun, legal actions negotiations and total abandonment.
According to Kimemia (2015), he investigated project delay in construction industry in

Kenya. The study found that contractor’s experience significantly influenced the delay of
construction projects in the road sector. The study found that contractor’s planning and
authorization experience and channels used by the contractor influenced completion. The
study findings found that contractors had poor distribution of labour, poor site management
and lacked good technical & managerial skills to run the project. The study recommended
that the experience of the contractors should be scrutinized, their track records be well
understood and proper procedures of testing these contractor’s experience be checked.
Aje, Odusami, and Ogunsemi (2009) explored management capability in cost and time
performance from contractors in construction projects in Nigeria. A descriptive research
design was used. The results revealed that having management capability as a contractor
15
played a major role in cost and time performance in construction projects. The study
recommended that before awarding contractors with tenders, management capability should
be assessed during prequalification.
Gudah, Omboto, and Tubey (2017) asserts that the competency of the supervisor, contractor
experience in doing a similar work together with the competence of project team was the
most significant criteria that were considered during contractor selection process. This was so
because despite funds and approvals being there, a competent person/organization had to be
competitively recruited to implement the commercial housing project. However, other factors
such as category of contractor based on National Construction Authority (NCA),
subcontractor’s qualification and financial liquidity of the contractor were often looked at.
The study recommended that there was need for consideration of previous contracts
undertaken by a particular contractor before engaging them to implement a new project.
Kogi (2013) discovered that contractors’ selection process was a factor that had an influence
on effectiveness in implementation of construction projects. The noted that the criteria for
selection included contractor’s financial capacity; technical capacity; contractor’s bid/lowest
bidder, past experience in terms of size and type of projects, past relationship with
clients/contractors and management resource both formal and informal. The study found that
it was critical and necessary to find a successful and qualified contractor. The study
highlighted that a client may in addition want assurance from the tenderers (contractors) on
the contractors’ financial stability, technical capacity, experience and management
experience. The study concluded that improper selection of contractors led to implementation
delays and additional costs due to non-quality.
2.3.2 Resource Mobilization and Implementation of Road Projects
Murithi, Makokha, and Otieno (2017) evaluated the elements influencing convenient
consummation of open development extends in Trans-Nzoia County, Kenya. The
examination embraced an elucidating overview research structure. The aftereffects of the
examination demonstrated that venture asset allotment impacted auspicious finishing of open
development ventures. The investigation found that assignment of satisfactory assets
influenced venture achievement. Money related issues and installments issues of finished
work had really prompted undertaking delays. Absence of satisfactory assets prompted delays
16
in securing development materials. The investigation prescribed that the region government
ought to guarantee satisfactory asset assignment for every one of the tasks they are embraced.
Adek (2016) looked to discover the determinants of fruitful activities usage in Mombasa
County. An engaging exploration configuration was utilized. The investigation found that
assets essentially affected the usage of tasks in the province. The examination found that cash
given by the region government to ability and the whole execution procedure was insufficient
and that pay rates paid to area ventures representatives were not adequate. The investigation
featured that region governments had relatively constrained assets and more noteworthy
trouble in getting to subsidizing sources, they were likewise increasingly reliant on help from
the focal government, had low pay sources from the assessments at region level, they had
restricted development in sourcing for more assets, had less satisfactory spending control
framework, utilized less or non-experienced work force and needed economies of scale in
their activities. This thus had restricted their activities, nature of conveyance and viability in
tasks conveyed.
Wambui, Ombui, and Kagiri (2015) researched what was influencing street fulfillment
extends in Nairobi City County. The examination connected an enlightening exploration plan.
The investigation populace involved 2000 individuals from staff working in KURA in
Nairobi. The examination discoveries demonstrated that undertaking reserves emphatically
and fundamentally impacted the deferral of the street ventures. The investigation found that
sufficiency of assets, their accessibility, the executives of the assets, cost sparing and
availability of the affected the fruition of the street extends under examination. The
examination recommended the requirement for powerful asset preparation methodologies and
appraisal of limit requirements for viable consummation of the street ventures.
Impact of task asset assembly was explored by Maendo, James, and Ngugi (2018), in the
Lake Basin Region in Kenya, where 41 streets were development undertakings was attempted
by a neighborhood firm. The investigation found that preparation of money related assets had
huge positive outcomes on achievement of streets development ventures. The outcomes
further uncovered that neighborhood firms were unfit to assemble assets to the street extends
because of money related oblige. This investigation reasoned that asset accessibility was a
significant factor for accomplishment of the street development venture. The examination
suggested that administration aptitudes and right utilization of the assets assumes a
noteworthy job to guarantee finishing of the undertaking inside the given spending cost.
17
Onyango, Bwisa, and Orwa (2017) surveyed the basic factors that impacted the
accomplishment of open street development extends in Kenya on account of Thika Sub-
County. The investigation utilized a graphic study research plan. The investigation found that
the financing procedure altogether influenced the execution of the undertakings under
examination. The examination featured that it was significant for the subsidizing procedure to
think about a planning plan for alleviation of dangers and externalities. The examination
additionally stressed that long haul achievement and manageability of the undertaking
subsidizing lay with the commitment of venture advisors and the immediate recipients and
that financing forms that considered partners for the time being and long haul prompted
successful execution of the tasks. The investigation likewise discovered that dedication and
progression of lead lender of a task decided its execution speed and quality. Also, clear
depiction, testing and outside approval of open framework subsidizes decided its potential
and that adjusting task financing procedure to monetary and natural advantages empowered
smooth execution. The investigation prescribed that for full execution of the tasks, the
subsidizing procedure should have been think about with explicit blueprints on the primary
financing source, the minor and the crisis assets for the venture. The utilization of these assets
additionally should have been very much sketched out in the subsidizing procedure to choke
on abuse and under or over spending by enthusiastic venture the executives implementers.
Abdalla and Otieno (2017) explored the determinants of accomplishment of area government
tasks utilizing an instance of infrastructural extends in Kilifi County, Kenya. The examination
embraced a graphic overview structure. The discoveries demonstrated that undertaking
subsidizing level had a critical association with execution of the framework extends in the
area. This could be viewed as either assets being benefited in great occasions, being sufficient
to finance the undertaking just as great progression of assets in the ventures to fund venture
exercises. The examination featured that lacking capital, delays in accepting the development
installment, money related asset the executives, advance installment behind time and
postponements in installment of finished works influenced the usage of the ventures. The
investigation found that temporary workers did not have solid budgetary foundation to keep
the work in advancement and in this way, when the contractual workers' income was
fundamentally influenced, it prompted delay in acquirement of assets which therefore
influenced the time and cost execution of ventures and subsequently antagonistically
influenced the usage of the activities.
18
2.3.3 Target Beneficiary Participation and Implementation of Road Projects
An examination was finished by Karuti (2015) who investigated the advantages of successful
observing and assessment of water projects in Kenya. The examination utilized an engaging
review research plan. The examination found that recipient cooperation (estimated by
recipient's dimension of information of objectives and targets, exercises recognizable proof,
distinguishing proof of estimations of advancement and interest in announcing of results)
were essentially identified with the observing and assessment of the ventures under
investigation. The examination anyway discovered that recipients' investment in the task
exercises was low. Recipient cooperation in the venture exercises was observed to be basic
for the manageability of the undertaking. The examination suggested that the administration
should, on customary premise, open the recipients to the money related reports for expanded
straightforwardness and responsibility. It was foreseen that data accumulated would empower
networks comprehend the idea of CBWPs and further help the board panels, the legislature
and givers in the including an incentive in the manner by which they drew in with the
CBWPs.
Ngondo (2014) examined CDF extends in Kenya about administration procedure and time
used to finish the undertakings. As indicated by the discoveries the most elevated impact on
opportune fruition was usage of task, trailed by undertaking recognizable proof, while
venture observing and assessment had minimal impact of convenient fulfillment. The
investigation uncovered that basic leadership was helped by a center gathering to perceive the
issue and what was required for development. The examination inferred that update and
advancement was not conveyed by the undertaking usage group and they were not answering
to the CDF ventures arranging and execution group.
Mwobobia (2013) assessed the impact of nearby network association in task anticipating the
supportability of ventures in Embu County, Kenya. A spellbinding report configuration was
embraced. The investigation found that individuals who were engaged with spring up with
target of the undertaking were backers, supervisors and task laborers. The examination
further divulged that the network were not engaged with the spring up of the venture and its
particular. This demonstrated there was no legitimate correspondence between the network
and the venture supervisory crew in Embu County. It additionally demonstrated that they did
exclude the network part amid assets activation for completing of the task. The main assets
they added to the network were labor, crude material and budgetary assets in little bit. This
19
coursed negative impact inside the venture in Embu County. The outcome found that due to
not including the network it prompted late fulfillment of the venture, wastefulness utilization
of the assets and absence of fulfillment of customer (network individuals) in all viewpoints
expected and henceforth negative consequences for task supportability. The examination
prescribed that there is a need to include the network individuals at all periods of the
undertaking and in asset activation and the requirement for partner needs investigation.
In their examination, Ndunda, Nyang'au, and Mbura (2017) inspected the impact of partner
exercises on execution of rustic street extends in Machakos County. They decided the impact
of task recipient help on the execution of street extends in the region. A graphic review
configuration was received. The examination found that venture recipient interest
emphatically and altogether impacted the accomplishment of street extends in the region. The
investigation found that recipient support prompted high venture worthiness which prompted
the undertakings being finished at the required time limit. It likewise prompted contribution
of the recipients in the basic leadership procedures guaranteeing that their needs are thought
about. This made it simple to actualize street ventures.
Ibanga, Shukla, and Eugene (2016) tried to discover "the impact of recipient help with
venture checking and assessment on task achievement utilizing the instance of KWAMP
venture in Kirehe region, Rwanda. The investigation employed an unmistakable research
plan. Most individuals knew about the objectives and targets of the venture and somewhat
better than expected took an interest in many exercises aside from in creating rule utilized in
detailing and in announcing the undertaking execution. Most individuals completely and
effectively took part in checking and assessing how the accounts implied for their venture
were being utilized. Such recipients' support was found to altogether influence the venture
accomplishment as it improved straightforwardness and responsibility among every one of
the gatherings" included.
2.3.4 Political Goodwill and Governance and Implementation of Road Projects
Kinyanjui, Bulitia, and Machogu (2016) sought to find out the extent in which governance
affected the implementation of CDF projects in Kiharu Constituency. It was noted that
governance standards significantly affected the implementation of CDF projects in the
constituency. The study found that members of the local communities were given a free hand
to determine the projects to be undertaken in their localities. It was also found that CDF gave
20
great consideration to the local needs as a premise of decision making with regards to the
projects undertaken in the localities. The study further found that local communities in most
cases took a common approach as regards the project choice thus an indication of the fact that
communal interests were the guiding parameter in project choice determination. Local
communities were assertive enough to readily participate in public forums to determine the
projects to be undertaken and this enhanced the communities’ ownership of the programs.
Local communities were duly engaged in the decision making processes in the projects
carried out to ensure successful implementation. Participation by local communities played a
great role in enhancing social audit capacity in the wake of assuring the delivery of sound
programs. The governance practices of CDF should equally be fully implemented with
regards to the provisions stipulated in the act. Emphasis should be placed on enhancing the
stakeholder participation via public forums effectively advertised for all and sundry.
Adek (2016) investigated the role of governance in the implementation of infrastructural

projects in Mombasa County. A descriptive study design was applied. The study found that
politicians were very central in the procurement, resources allocation, mobilizing people and
many more for their personal gains. Others were said to have promoted favoritism, nepotism
and even biased hiring that at the end of the day ensured to nonqualified personnel were
employed in the department. Based on the responses given, it was found that in essence
powerful stakeholders, who were politically, socially and economically dominant, for their
own interests thwarted the participation of their counterparts, and influenced the selection and
planning of projects to favour their personal interests. The study recommended that the local
politicians, the local and national leaders should keep politics, nepotism, tribalism and
corruption out of projects.
Zakayo (2017) assessed the factors influencing the implementation of water projects under
the devolved system of governance in Kenya. The study established that political goodwill
impacted the execution of water project under study. The study revealed that bureaucracy in
tendering was major hindrance to the implementation of water projects in Meru County, some
water projects in Meru County had stalled as result of political patronage. The study found
that high levels of bureaucratic tendencies in the identification of water project contractors
characterized by clientelism did have a negative influence on the implementation of water
projects. Therefore, the study recommended strong policies that would help curb political
selfishness which impeded implementation of water projects under the devolved system.
21
Maritim (2013) carried out an investigation in to the dynamics that influenced the execution
of projects under CDF in Bureti Constituency, Kenya. The study established that governance
had significant influence on implementation of the projects. The study revealed that PMC
leadership had strong contribution on implementation development projects. This
notwithstanding, the study found out that most projects did not depict effective leadership
styles, for over half of the projects rarely conducted regular elections. The study
recommended that the department of social development needed to strengthen regulatory
measures to ensure that group elections were being conducted yearly. This would enable
project members to replace ineffective leaders so that when elected in office, officials would
strive to perform well in order to be re - elected.
Ogeno (2016) assessed the variables affecting consummation of development extends in

Kenya on account of government structures development extends in Nairobi County, Kenya.
The investigation received an unmistakable study research structure. The examination
discovered that the political impedance, political deliver assets dispensed per undertaking and
the board self-rule played a basic however ineffectively comprehended job in deciding the
achievement or disappointment of the finish of development ventures. The investigation
found that government officials were chosen by natives to choose open arrangement,
including the conveyance of open undertakings. By and by, the partners depended upon by
the venture likewise had their very own motivation and inclinations for taking an interest in
the undertaking. The connections to the task by these partners can shift from strong to hostile,
however relying upon their field of impact, must be considered and oversaw.
Adan (2017) evaluated the dynamics influencing the achievement of road project in Isiolo
County. Politics was found to have a strong negative effect on the achievement of these road
projects. The study found that politicians were keen to influence the awarding of tenders by
receiving bribes for the tenders to be awarded to the bribe giver or pressuring the government
to award the tenders to specific individuals. This led to complications in the M&E processes,
payment for work done and holding the contractor accountable for the final product of the
project. The study found that politics were prevalent in all the phases of the project right from
the advertisement to completion. The end result of political interference was poorly
constructed roads that did not offer the residents value for their money.
Monyoncho (2015) evaluated the determinants of execution of government subsidized

development extends in Lamu County, Kenya. The investigation embraced an unmistakable
22
overview structure. The investigation discovered that great administration was basic in the
usage of ventures in Lamu County. The investigation featured that venture administration set
a firm structure which guided undertaking achievement, making straightforwardness and trust
in basic leadership, clearness of jobs and duties and thought of partner premiums. The study
found that poor governance from the side of project managers led to engaging less qualified
project teams, imprudent use of resources and hence compromise on project implementation.
2.3.5 M&E and Implementation of Road Projects
Barasa (2014) looked into the effect of checking and evaluation instruments on endeavor
culmination in Kenya using an occasion of body electorate headway store stretches out in
Kakamega County, Kenya. The revelations exhibited that watching and appraisal mechanical
assemblies affected endeavor satisfaction. Precisely, the examination saw that indispensable
game plan, watched genuine structure, spending plan and accomplice examination had high
effect on the satisfaction of endeavors under examination. The examination assumed that
there was need to combine these contraptions in attempted the administrators.
Jha and Iyer (2016) assessed the "fundamental factors impacting quality execution being
developed stretches out in India. An unmistakable diagram arrangement was associated. The
examination found that suitable watching and promising analysis helped in controlling the
workmanship and they improved the idea of an assignment. If each share of any profits of an
errand was checked satisfactorily and events of poor workmanship and less than ideal use of
benefits – be it material, work or plant and device – were represented speedily, it upheld in
achieving the perfect quality measurement. Submitted individuals would hold fast to the
quality course of action and they would seek after the recognized particular practices to do
the differing adventure works out.
Mwangu and Iravo (2015) investigated how checking and appraisal contributed in
achievement of Constituency Development Fund Projects in Kenya by virtue of Gatanga
Constituency. The outcomes of the examination revealed that the horridness of the endeavor
supervisors who coordinated site visits and social events and organized between time
valuations and financial synopses were important to broaden results/accomplishment. The
revelations showed that endeavors in Gatanga Constituency were unquestionably checked
and evaluated which incited most of them being done inside the stipulated period and
spending plan while satisfying accomplice's wants. Everything considered, the examination
23
proposed that a structure and watching instruments should be wanted to make this action and
that undeniably ground-breaking checking of endeavors by noteworthy bodies were
fundamental and of most noticeable bit of leeway in light of the improved learning they gave
concerning adventure fulfillment status.
Sialala (2016) examined the effect of watching and evaluation compromise on completing of
feeder road stretches out by virtue of Kajiado County in Kenya. The examination grasped an
unmistakable research structure. The examination found that common sense, conveyance of
sufficient spending plan for M&E strategy and nature of M&E blend determinedly impacted
the completing of endeavors under scrutiny. The examination found that common sense of
M&E blend revealed confounds and offered ways with learning and upgrades and
empowered it to pick up from each other's experiences, developing dominance and data. The
examination revealed that endeavor spending plan expected to give an unquestionable and
tasteful course of action for watching and evaluation works out. The examination exhibited
that monitoring informed on where a plan, program, or undertaking was at some irregular
time (and after some time) in regard to specific targets and results.
Gichaiya (2016) explored the effects of watching and evaluation gadgets on utilization of
remote framework stretches out in associations of higher learning in Kenya using a logical
examination of JKUAT hallways of living game plan. An edifying report design was used.
The examination found that checking and appraisal altogether influenced undertaking
execution. It was found that diligent watching and evaluation over the endeavor lifecycle
basically added to an endeavor working inside the booked time allocation. The examination
in like manner found that, survey consequent meet-ups in the midst of watching and
evaluation inside and out added to satisfying set quality rules in the midst of undertaking use.
That checking and evaluation of undertaking could basically add to viability and which was a
key marker of productive errand execution. The examination recommended that the
organization of associations should systematize recommendations from follow up surveys
and reactions from accomplices in order to reduce the gap between authentic endeavor use
and the ordinary execution which would somehow convey insufficiencies to the achievement
of the arranged assignment objective.
Biwott, Egesah, and Ngeywo (2017) surveyed the activity of checking and appraisal on the
supportability of Kenya Government Constituency Development Fund (CDF) stretches out in
Kenya subject to a work region think about. The examination found that watching gave
24
predictable contribution on the undertaking execution as it recognized potential triumphs and
objectives that could coordinate in fortunate decisions. Appraisal on the other hand was found
to help with choosing the dimension of achievement of the goals; choosing and recognizing
the issues related with program orchestrating and execution; making data that considered
joined acknowledging which, along these lines, added to better organized activities, improved
organization and an unrivaled assessment of their impact; supported the reformulation of
targets, methodologies, and frameworks in endeavors/programs. The examination found that
appraisal was as such a strategy that chose the reasonableness of undertakings/expands and
empowered decisions on further resource obligation. The examination endorsed further
planning be given to various CDF adventure overseers in parts of checking and appraisal to
encourage them to use these gadgets consistently and precisely to impart viability of the
desire for the undertakings completed.
Umugwaneza (2016) overviewed the activity of checking and evaluation on errand sensibility
in Rwanda using the logical examination of Electricity Access Scale-Up and Sector-Wide
Approach Development Project (EASSDP). The examination used an illustrative research
plan. The disclosures of this examination revealed that there was a tremendous positive
association between duty, suitable correspondence, relationship for masterminding and solid
supervision on reasonability of undertakings" in Rwanda. The examination found that setting
wants, following progression and planning the assignment with execution the administrators
systems ensured obligation in endeavored the endeavor which incited extended productivity.
The examination moreover found that amazing correspondence updated agent certainty,
energized gathering building, incited diminished conflicts similarly as more grounded
relationship inside the endeavor. It was moreover settled that relationship for masterminded
incited innovative conceptualizing while relentless supervision ensured there was an
overview and talk errand issues, ensured that adventure executives got input and considered
the substance and ensured that the Process of the work was endeavored from more than one
point of view.
2.4 Summary of Literature and Research Gaps
Various studies existing showing the link between various organizational factors and
implementation of road projects. For instance, Wambui, Ombui, and Kagiri (2015),
Nevertheless, the review showed that studies on the execution of road projects in Wajir
County was conspicuously missing and the findings of studies conducted in other areas could
25
not be generalized to fit the Wajir County case. The study by Opuch (2016) focused on a road
project in Uganda, Kimemia (2015) focused on road projects undertaken by KeNHA in the
Coast Region, Wambui, Ombui, and Kagiri (2015) concentrated on road construction projects
in Nairobi City County while Maendo, James, and Ngugi (2018) focused on the Lake Basin
region. Therefore, given the differences in the contextual conditions in these regions, it was
crucial to find out how a number of critical factors affected the execution of road projects in
the County of Wajir.
2.5 Conceptual Framework
Figure 2.1 showed the link between critical success factors and how road projects in Wajir
County were implemented. The study considered contractors’ competency/capacity, resource
mobilization, target beneficiary participation, local politics and governance and M&E as the
independent variables while implementation of the road projects in the county was the
dependent variable.
26
Independent Variables Dependent Variable
Contractor’s Competency& Capacity

 Experience and Technical skills
 Knowledge and integrity
 Decision making capabilities
 Financial power of contractor
Project Resource Mobilization

 Adequacy and timeliness of funding
 Financing methods
 Diversity of project fund sources
Implementation of
Target Beneficiary Participation Wajir county projects
 Evaluation, selection and prioritization for roads
of the projects
 Following up or monitoring the projects  Finish in time
 Management of project funds  Level of completion
 Cost and quality
 Within budget
Politics Goodwill and Governance  As per specification
 Level of involvement of  Stakeholder
politicians/Political interference
ownership/
 Political goodwill/acceptance of project
satisfaction
 Accountability, corruption, transparency
in project leadership 
 Selection of Project Management
Committee
M&E
 Control mechanism
 Reporting and review
 Performance review and feedback
framework
 Monitoring schedule
 Monitoring and evaluation audit follow
ups
Figure 2.1: Conceptual Framework
Source: Researcher (2018)
27
CHAPTER THREE
RESEARCH METHODOLOGY
3.1 Introduction
This chapter dealt with research procedures and methods going used in conducting the study.
It dealt with the structuring of the study such as its target population, research design, tools
for collecting data, sampling design, the plan applied in analyzing the data as well as ethical
concerns that the researcher observed in carrying out the study.
3.2 Research Design
The study made use of a descriptive survey research design. The major aim of choosing this
design was because it assisted the researcher in answering the questions concerning the
existing/current status of the phenomena under the study through the data collected and it also
helped in finding out the causal relationship present between study variables. The design
facilitated the determination of how critical success factors namely contractors’
competencies/capacity, resource mobilization, target beneficiary participation, local politics
and governance as well as M&E had impacted the execution of road projects in Wajir
County.
3.3 Target Population
The study targeted 5 county officials under the transport and infrastructure department, 150
project management committee members drawn from the various road projects in the county,
80 registered road contractors involved in the various road projects in the county as well as
225 local community leaders representing the local residents who were the target
beneficiaries of road projects drawn from various project and development committees in the
county. By ensuring that various stakeholders in the road projects in the county participated
in the study, the researcher was able to get objective information that gave a true picture on
the situation in the ground pertaining to implementation of road projects.
28
Table 3.1: Target Population
Category Target Population
1. Officials under the County Transport and 5

Infrastructure Department
2. Project Management Committee members 150
3. Registered Road Contractors in the various county 80

road projects
4. Local Community Leaders (target beneficiaries 225

representatives)
Total 460
Source: Wajir County Transport and Infrastructure Department (2018)
3.4 Sample Size and Sampling Procedures
Selecting a study sample is a crucial phase in the research process given that studying an
entire population can hardly be practically, efficiently or ethically undertaken. Given the
small number of county officials in the transport and infrastructure department which was
manageable, a census of these officials was taken. Therefore, all the 5 county officials
serving in the Transport and Infrastructure Department were involved in this study.
Since it was not possible to involve all the road project management committee members in
the study due to time and financial constraints, the researcher selected 20% of the PMC
members. In this study, 30 road PMC members participated in the study. Furthermore, the
researcher selected 30% of the total number of registered road contractors involved in the
various road projects in the county in line with Mugenda and Mugenda (2003) and Kothari
(2004). Hence, 24 registered road contractors participated in this study.
In this study, 30% of the local community leaders who were the representatives of the target
beneficiaries of the various road projects in the county were involved in the study. Therefore,
68 local community leaders were involved in the study.
29
Table 3.2: Sample Size
Category Sample Size
1. Officials under the County Transport and Infrastructure 5

Department
2. Project Management Committee members 30
3. Registered Road Contractors in the various county road 24

projects
4. Local Community Leaders (target beneficiaries 68

representatives)
Total 130
Source: Wajir County Transport and Infrastructure Department (2018)
3.5 Data Collection Instrument and Procedures
The study used primary data collected using structured questionnaires. The questionnaire
contained seven section where Section A consisted of questions capturing the personal
information of the study respondents while Sections B, C, D, E, F and G covered questions
relating to contractors’ competencies/capacity, resource mobilization, target beneficiary,
political goodwill and governance, M&E and implementation of road projects in Wajir
County in that order.
The questionnaires were hand delivered to the respondents by the research assistants engaged
by the researcher. The researcher furnished the study participants with an introduction letter
from the university so as to win the trust and confidence of the study participants. Their
consent was also sought before commencing the data collection exercise. An advice form was
issued before they could consent to be part of the study.
The researcher also sought the authorization of the county management since the research
focus on county road projects. As a requirement in fulfilment of ethical requirements, the
researcher further obtained a permit for research from the National Commission for Science,
Technology and Innovation (NACOSTI).
30
3.6 Pilot Testing
The questionnaires were pretested before using them in the major data collection activity. The
purpose of conducting the pre-test was to evaluate the valid of questions asked and the
possibility that the data gathered would be reliable. The participants in the pilot study were
not allowed to be involved in the final data collection exercise and there was no requirement
that the selected participants should be selected in a statistical manner. A pilot study should
be based on 1 to 10% of the actual sample (Mugenda & Mugenda, 2003). In this study, 10%
of the sample was involved in the pilot study. Hence, 1 County Official under the Transport
and Infrastructure Department, 3 road PMC members, 3 registered road contractors in the
various road projects in the county and 6 local community leaders (target beneficiary
representatives) were involved in the pilot study. The feedback obtained from the pilot study
data gathered was analyzed and used to make adjustments to the questionnaire besides
equipping the researcher with crucial experience needed in collecting the data for the main
study.
3.6.1 Validity of the Instrument
Validity is the measure which the discoveries achieved from the broke down information
genuinely mirror the marvel being considered (Mugenda and Mugenda, 2003). This
investigation utilized both build validity and substance validity. For develop validity, the poll
was separated into a few areas to guarantee that each segment caught data for a particular
goal, and furthermore guarantee that the equivalent intently binds to the reasonable structure
for the examination. To guarantee content validity, the poll was exposed to intensive
examination by project experts, who were arbitrarily chosen just as the manager of the
exploration. The two project experts and the supervisor were asked to assess the inquiries in
the poll for significance and whether they were important, clear, stacked of hostile. Based on
their assessment, the instrument was balanced properly before exposing it to the last
information accumulation work out.
3.6.2 Reliability of the Instrument
The Cronbach alpha which was a coefficient of internal consistency was used to quantify the
reliability of the questionnaire. In this inquiry, the acceptable value of 0.7 was considered.
The findings displayed in Table 3.3 shows that the study instrument was reliable.
31
Table 3.3: Reliability Analysis
Number of Cronbach
Variables Participants Remark
Items Alpha
Contractors’
8 13 0.701 Reliable
Competencies/Capacity
Resource Mobilization 8 13 0.792 Reliable
Target Beneficiary Participation 8 13 0.741 Reliable
Political Goodwill and Governance 7 13 0.744 Reliable
M&E 7 13 0.780 Reliable
Implementation of Road Projects
8 13 0.714 Reliable
in Wajir County
Source: Research Data
3.7 Data Analysis and Presentation
Data analysis methods that employed involve quantitative procedures. Coding and entry of
the quantitative data into SPSS (V.20) was conducted. The model used to link the variables
was as shown below;
Y = β0 + β 1X1+ β 2X2+ β 3X3+ β4X4 + β5X5+ e
Where: Implementation of Road Projects in Wajir County
= = Constant
β1, β2, β3, β4, β5 = Regression Coefficients
X1 = Contractors’ Competencies/Capacity
X2 = Resource Mobilization
X3 = Target Beneficiary Participation
X4 = Political Goodwill and Governance
X5 = M&E
e=Error term
32
3.8 Ethical Considerations
Ethical issues relate to the ethical principles that an analyst should keep up all through the
whole research process. Bearing this in mind, the researcher specialist ensured that they
completed the exploration sincerely and equitably. In guaranteeing privacy, responses were
provided namelessly and there were no personal identifiers. The scientist guaranteed that the
information gathered was restricted to scholarly reason just and that the respondents took an
interest deliberately without intimidation or pay off. The analyst additionally outfitted the
members with a counsel structure enumerating the point, advantages and dangers of taking
part in the investigation. The researcher disclosed and strictly observed the participants' rights
and privileges, for example, the privilege to pull back from the information gathering
exercise with no results. The researcher treated all investigation members decently.
33
CHAPTER FOUR
RESEARCH FINDINGS AND DISCUSSIONS
4.1 Introduction
This chapter encompasses the data analysis, study findings and their interpretation. The
results are presented in tables and figures. The study findings were organized as per the study
objectives.
4.2 Response Rate
The quantity of questionnaires controlled was 130. An aggregate of 107 questionnaires were
appropriately filled and returned. This spoke to a by and large effective reaction rate of
82.32% as appeared Table 4.1. This reaction rate was viewed as sufficient dependent on the
declarations of perceived researchers, for example, Mugenda and Mugenda (2003) and
Babbie (2004).
Table 4.1: Response Rate
Response Frequency Percent

Returned 107 82.31%
Unreturned 23 17.69%
Total 130 100.0%
Source: Research Data (2018)
4.3 Demographic Information of the Respondents.
This section consists of information describing the basic characteristics of the study
participants. The gender, age bracket, highest level of education, position held in the county
government and years served in the stated position were analyzed.
4.3.1 Gender of the Respondents
The results as presented in Figure 4.1 show that majority of the respondents, 67.3%, were
male while 32.7% of the respondents were female. The study findings imply that there was a
gender imbalance within the various positions considered under the within the county. The
findings support the views by Ellis et al. (2007) that men still dominated crucial areas of
influence and tasks despite increased women participation.
34
Figure 4.1: Gender of the Respondents
4.3.2 Age Bracket of the Respondents
The study findings in Figure 4.2 show that 33.6% of the respondents were aged between 26-
35years, 29.9% were aged between 36-45years, 20.6% were aged between 46-55years, 12.1%
were aged above 55years, while 3.7% of the respondents were below 25years of age. The
study findings imply that most positions considered in the study were held by relatively older
and mature people and this enhanced the level of cooperation during the data collection
exercise.
Figure 4.2: Age Bracket of the Respondents
35
4.3.3 Highest Level of Education of the Respondents
The results in Figure 4.3 show that 37.4% of the respondents indicated that they had an
undergraduate degree, 21.5% had a master’s degree, 16.8% had a diploma, while 7.5%, and
4.7% of the respondents indicated that they had a certificate and a PhD respectively. 12.1% of
the respondents indicated other educational achievements. The findings imply that majority
of the respondents had the prerequisite knowledge to understand the concept under research.
Figure 4.3: Highest level of Education
4.3.4 Position within the County Government
The findings in Figure 4.4 show that 54.2% of the respondents, noted that they were local
community leaders, 25.2% were county project management committee members, 17.8%
were road contractors working with the county government while 2.8% of the respondents
were county transport and infrastructure department officials. The findings imply that the
researcher was able to get views from the key parties involved in the implementation of road
projects in the county hence eliminating bias and ensuring a true picture of road project
implementation is given.
36
Figure 4.4: Position within the County Government
4.3.5 Years Served in the Stated Position
The study results in Figure 4.5 show that 28.0% of the respondents noted that they have
worked for 1 to 2years in the stated position, 25.2% had worked in the position for less than a
year, 24.3% noted that they had worked in the stated position for 3 to 4years, while 22.4%
had worked in the position for over 4years. Since a majority of the respondents had served in
the stated position for a number of years, it was concluded that most respondents had rich
information regarding the implementation of road projects in the county and the associated
critical success factors and therefore, they were equipped to provide resourceful information.
37
Figure 4.5: Years Served in the Stated Position
4.4 Descriptive Analysis
The first objective was to examine the influence of contractors’ competencies/capacity on

implementation of road projects in Wajir County. The respondents were asked to respond to
various statements on a 5 point Likert scale. The results presented in Table 4.2 show that the
highest mean of responses was 3.533 and the lowest was 2.701. The overall mean of
responses score for contractors’ competencies/capacity was 3.105. The implication was that
on average, majority of the respondents had a neutral view on most of the statements on
contractor’s competencies/capacity in the implementation of road projects in the county.
Their views were also varied as supported by the standard deviation.
The findings also showed that on average, the respondents agreed that the road contractors
selected by the county effectively coordinated with other parties involved in the road projects
given (M=3.533, SD=1.33). The findings further showed that on average, majority of the
respondents had a neutral opinion of the rest of the statements as outlined in Table 4.2. Opuch
(2016) highlights that the technical capacity, selection criteria and the financial capacity of
contractors is crucial in the completion of road projects. Furthermore, Mydin, Sani, Taib, and
38
Mohd (2014) and also Kimemia (2015) highlighted that the timeliness of payments made to
contractors, their site management skills and scrutiny of the contractor’s experience and track
records are fundamental in construction projects.
Table 4.2: Contractors’ Competencies/Capacity
Contractors' Capacity n Mean SD

Local contractors selected by the county have the technical capacity
to undertake road construction projects. 107 3.25 1.33
Awarding of road construction contracts in the county is based on the
company’s capacity and technical expertise. 107 2.70 1.15
The experience and track records of the road contractors in the county
are adequately scrutinized before their selection 107 3.10 1.11
The road contractors selected by the county effectively coordinate
with other parties involved in the road projects 107 3.53 1.13
Contractors selected to undertake road projects in the county have
substantial finances and do not rely on the county to release payment
for construction 107 2.79 1.31
The selected road contractors and their project team have the required
tacit knowledge to undertake road projects in the county 107 3.33 1.16
The decisions made by road contractors on various aspects of the
road projects in the county are always timely and adequate 107 3.21 1.16
There is excellent site and resource management by road contactors
in the various road projects 107 2.94 1.10
Average 3.11 1.18
The findings presented in Table 4.3 show that the highest mean of responses related to
resource mobilization was 3.168 while the lowest mean score was 2.439. The overall mean of
responses was 2.777 which implied that on average, majority of the respondents had neutral
view on most of the statements on resource mobilization in the implementation of road
projects in the county and that the respondents gave varied responses given SD=0.98.
The findings further show that on average, majority of the respondents, somehow agreed or
had neutral view that there was prudent use and administration of road project funds in the
county (M=3.168, SD=0.89); that there was commitment and continuity of lead financiers of
road projects in the county (M=3.056, SD=1.16); that the county government had been able
to mobilize diverse sources of resources for road project implementation (M=2.944,
SD=1.10); that there were no procedural delays in the disbursement of road projects funds in
the county (M=2.757, SD=1.12); that there was steady availability of resources as planned for
39
all activities throughout the road projects’ duration (M=2.701, SD=0.90) and that the county
government had been able to mobilize considerable amount of funds locally to support road
projects within the county (M=2.692, SD=1.07). The findings however showed that on
average, majority of the respondents were in disagreement with the statements that there was
timely payment of advance, progress and completed road works in the county (M=2.458,
SD=0.86) and that there were adequate funds allocated to finance road projects in this county
(M=2.439, SD=0.76).
According to Murithi, Makokha, and Otieno (2017), the adequacy and timeliness in
allocating and releasing project resources affect project success. Adek (2016) also points that
county governments had comparatively limited resources and greater difficulty in accessing
to funding sources and highly depended on one source of support, that is, the central
government and this scenario determines the quality of delivery and effectiveness in projects
delivered. Wambui, Ombui, and Kagiri (2015) further underscores the importance of project
fund utilization, management and their accessibility in completion of road projects.
Table 4.3: Resource Mobilization
Std
Resource Allocation n Mean Dvn.
There are adequate funds allocated to finance road projects in this
county 107 2.44 0.76
There is steady availability of resources as planned for all activities
throughout the road projects’ duration 107 2.70 0.90
There is prudent use and administration of road project funds in the
county 107 3.17 0.89
There is commitment and continuity of lead financiers of road
projects in the county 107 3.06 1.16
There are no procedural delays in the disbursement of road projects
funds in the county 107 2.76 1.12
There is timely payment of advance, progress and completed road
works in the county 107 2.46 0.86
The county government has been able to mobilize considerable
amount of funds locally to support road projects within the county 107 2.69 1.07
The county government has been able to mobilize diverse sources
of resources for road project implementation 107 2.94 1.10
Average 2.78 0.98
40
The results as outlined in Table 4.4 reveal that on average, the teachers had a neutral view on
most of the statements on target beneficiary participation on average and their responses were
varied given (M=3.252, SD=1.05). The highest mean of responses score was 3.439 while
lowest score was 3.075. Generally, the respondents were having a neutral view on all the
statements on target beneficiary participation. Karuti (2015) points out that beneficiary
participation in the project activities was found to be essential for the sustainability of the
project. According to him, beneficiaries should participate in project identification and should
be exposed to the project financial reports for increased transparency and accountability.
Mwobobia (2013) also argues that issues of community’s non-involvement in the spring up
of the project and its specification and lack of proper communication between the community
and the project management team were major issues in project implementation at the count
level. The study by Ibanga, Shukla, and Eugene (2016) recognizes the role of beneficiary
assistance in project M&E.
Table 4.4: Target Beneficiary Participation
Std
Target Beneficiary Participation n Mean Dvn.
Local residents are actively involved in all phases of road projects in
the county 107 3.30 1.01
Local community leaders have been involved in the needs appraisal
of road projects in the county 107 3.44 0.96
Initiation of new road projects is a collective responsibility that
involves all local residents 107 3.22 1.10
The views, concerns and recommendations of local residents are
always sort throughout the road project cycles 107 3.16 1.26
There is two-way communication between project managers and local
residents throughout road project cycle in this county 107 3.19 1.06
Community representatives have access to financial reports for all
road projects in the county for increased transparency and
accountability 107 3.08 1.09
Average 3.25 1.05
The fourth objective of the study sought to explore the influence of political goodwill and
governance on implementation of road projects in Wajir County. The results are shown in
Table 4.5 reveal that the overall mean of responses associated with political goodwill and
41
governance was 3.166 and a standard deviation of 1.203. The findings implied that on
average, the respondents had a neutral opinion on most of the statements on political
goodwill and governance in the implementation of road projects in Wajir County and their
responses were varied. The results show that respondents had a neutral view for all the
statements. Kinyanjui, Bulitia, and Machogu (2016) emphasizes the role of governance
practices and standards in project implementation. Adek (2016) raises issues pertaining to
politicians’ involvement in county projects majorly for personal gains and notes that others
promoted favoritism, nepotism and even biased hiring of project teams. Zakayo (2017)
highlights the importance of strong policies that would help curb political selfishness which
impedes implementation of projects under the devolved system.
Table 4.5: Political Goodwill and Governance
Std
Political Goodwill and Governance n Mean Dvn.
There is accountability and integrity among politicians and others
engaged in implementing road projects in the county 107 3.22 1.067
There is little influence of most road project decisions by the politics
of the time in this county 107 3.14 1.247
The selection of road project management committees in the county
is always transparent 107 3.37 0.995
There are effective structures for limiting the level of involvement of
politicians in all the phases of road projects in the county 107 2.94 1.287
There is consensus among local political leaders in all the road
projects initiated in the county 107 3.28 1.148
There are no cases of political patronage in the road contracts in the
county 107 2.88 1.272
Average 3.17 1.203
The results presented in Table 4.6 shows the teachers had a neutral opinion on most of the
statements on M&E in implementing road projects in the county and that their responses were
varied given (M=3.299, SD=1.150). The results revealed that on average, the teachers agreed
that the county transport and infrastructure committee made periodic visits to the road project
sites and inspected the projects and books of accounts (M=3.561, SD=1.326). For the rest of
the statements, they had a neutral opinion implying that they neither agreed or disagreed with
the statements where the lowest mean of responses score was associated with the statement
that appropriate evaluation reviews and reports are usually used throughout the lifecycle of
42
road projects in the county (M=3.103, SD=1.149). Barasa (2014) emphasis the need for
incorporation M&E tools among them logical framework and budget analysis in project
management. According to Jha and Iyer (2016), each and every project activity needs to
monitored effectively and points of concerns, for instance, poor workmanship and improper
usage of resources reported promptly to assisted in achieving the desired project quality level.
Table 4.6: M&E
Std
M&E n Mean Dvn.
There is an established framework and tools needed to monitor road
projects in the county 107 3.19 1.158
There is continuous checking of the physical and financial progress
of road projects in the county against established schedules and
budget plan 107 3.41 1.046
Appropriate evaluation reviews and reports are usually used
throughout the lifecycle of road projects in the county 107 3.10 1.149
Audit follow-ups are implemented during M&E throughout lifecycle
of road projects in the county 107 3.31 0.926
The county transport and infrastructure committee makes periodic
visits to the road project sites and inspects the projects and books of
accounts 107 3.56 1.326
County project supervisors emphasize the importance of monitoring
road projects at frequent intervals and on a timely basis 107 3.28 1.294
Results and feedback from M&E of road projects in the county are
timely 107 3.24 1.148
Average 3.30 1.150
4.4.6 Implementation of Road Projects in Wajir County
The study further assessed the implementation of road projects in Wajir County. The findings
presented in Table 4.6 show that on average, majority of the respondents rated the
implementation of road projects in Wajir County as average given (M=3.118, SD=1.004).
The highest mean of responses score was (M=3.308, SD=1.128) and was associated to the
level to which the project had directly benefited the intended users while the lowest mean
score was linked to the level of successful completion of road projects on time (M=2.879,
SD=1.195).
43
Table 4.7: Implementation of Road Projects in Wajir County
Implementation of Road Projects n Mean Std Dvn.

Level to which the project has directly benefited the intended 107
users 3.31 1.13
Level of satisfaction with the road projects among the 107
residents 3.29 0.89
Level of adherence to project budgets during the 107
implementation of road projects 3.14 0.90
Level of successful completion of road projects on time 107 2.88 1.20
Level to which the road projects in the county have been 107
completed 3.08 1.00
Level of adherence to road project schedules 107 2.95 1.01
Level of adherence to set quality standards and road project 107
specifications 3.10 0.86
Level of road project sustainability 107 3.20 1.11
Average 3.19 1.00
4.5 Inferential Statistics
The inferential analyzes considered in this study consisted of correlation and regression
analysis.
4.5.1 Correlation Analysis
Correlation analysis was undertaken in order to establish the association between the
contractors’ competencies/ capacity, resource mobilization, target beneficiary participation,
political goodwill and governance and M&E with the implementation of road projects in
Wajir County. The direction, strength and significance of the associations between the
independent variables with the dependent variable were investigated. Pearson correlation
coefficients were used. The study found that contractors’ competencies/ capacity had a strong
positive and significant correlation with the implementation of road projects in Wajir County
given (r=0.766, p=0.000, p<0.05). The findings also showed that resource mobilization and
the implementation of road projects in Wajir County were positively and significantly
correlated and their correlation was very strong (r=0.812, p=0.000, p<0.05). The study
further established that target beneficiary participation had a strong positive and significant
correlation with implementation of road projects in the county as shown by (r=0.734,
p=0.000, p<0.05). The correlation between political goodwill and governance and
implementation of road projects in Wajir County was also found to be strong, positive and
44
significant (r=0.685, p=0.000, p<0.05). Lastly, the study found a strong positive and
significant correlation between M&E and implementation of road projects in Wajir County.
The study findings implied that contractors’ competencies/ capacity, resource mobilization,
target beneficiary participation, political goodwill and governance and M&E were positively
and significantly associated with the implementation of road projects in Wajir County.
Table 4.8: Correlation Matrix

Contract Target
Implement ors’ Resourc Benefici Political Monitori
ation of competen e ary Goodwill ng &
road cies/ Mobiliza Particip and Evaluatio
projects capacity tion ation governance n
Implementati
on of road Pearson
projects Correlation 1
Sig. (2-tailed)
N 107
Contractors’
competencies Pearson
/ capacity Correlation .766** 1
Sig. (2-tailed) 0.000
N 107 107
Resource Pearson
Mobilization Correlation .812** .688** 1
Sig. (2-tailed) 0.000 0.000
N 107 107 107
Target
Beneficiary Pearson
Participation Correlation .734** .596** .668** 1
Sig. (2-tailed) 0.000 0.000 0.000
N 107 107 107 107
Political
Goodwill and Pearson
Governance Correlation .685** .484** .631** .653** 1
Sig. (2-tailed) 0.000 0.000 0.000 0.000
N 107 107 107 107 107
Monitoring Pearson
Evaluation Correlation .742** .617** .640** .650** .629** 1
Sig. (2-tailed) 0.000 0.000 0.000 0.000 0.000
N 107 107 107 107 107 107
** Correlation is significant at the 0.01 level (2-tailed).
45
4.5.2 Regression Analysis
The influence of contractors’ competencies/ capacity, resource mobilization, target

beneficiary participation, political goodwill and governance and M&E on the implementation
of road projects in Wajir County was quantified using regression coefficients. A multiple
regression analysis was conducted so as to establish the combined influence of these factors
on the implementation of road projects in the county. The results presented in Table 4.9 gives
the model summary. The coefficient of determination (R2) of 0.811 implied that contractors’
competencies/ capacity, resource mobilization, target beneficiary participation, political
goodwill and governance and M&E explained 81.1% of the changes in the implementation of
road projects in Wajir County. The findings also meant that the stated factors were
satisfactory variables in explaining the implementation of road projects in the county. 18.9%
of the changes in the implementation of road projects in Wajir County were explained by
other factors not included in the model. At times, the value of R squared can be overestimated
so the adjusted R squared corrects the value so as to provide better estimate of the true
population value. An adjusted R squared of 0.801 in this study implied that accurately, the
total variability in the implementation of road projects in Wajir County of 80.1% was
explained by contractors’ competencies/capacity, resource mobilization, target beneficiary
participation, political goodwill and governance and M&E.
Table 4.9: Model Summary
Adjusted R Std. Error of

Model R R Square Square the Estimate
1 .900a 0.811 0.801 0.24472
a Predictors: (Constant), Monitoring Evaluation, Contractors Capacity, Political Goodwill,
Target Beneficiary Participation, Resource Mobilization
Table 4.10 outlines the analysis of variance results. The results indicate that the overall model
used to link contractors’ competencies/capacity, resource mobilization, target beneficiary
participation, political goodwill and governance and M&E to the implementation of road
projects in Wajir County was statistically significant. This is supported by F= 38.851 and
associated p= 0.000 which was less than 0.05. Further, the results implied that the
independent variables namely contractors’ competencies/ capacity, resource mobilization,
target beneficiary participation, political goodwill and governance and M&E were good
predictors of implementation of road projects in Wajir County.
46
Table 4.10: ANOVA Results
Sum of Mean
Model Squares df Square F Sig.
1 Regression 25.884 5 5.177 86.44 .000b
Residual 6.049 101 0.06
Total 31.932 106
a Dependent Variable: Implementation of Road Projects in Wajir
County
b Predictors: (Constant), Monitoring Evaluation, Contractors Competencies/Capacity,
Political Goodwill and Governance, Target Beneficiary Participation, Resource Mobilization
The following model was fitted;
Y= -0.121 + 0.326X2 + 0.271X1 + 0.178X5+ 0.145X3+ 0.136 X4
Table 4.11: Regression Coefficients
Unstandardized Standardized
Model Coefficients Coefficients t Sig.
Std.
B Error Beta
1 (Constant) -0.12 0.16 -0.75 0.45
Contractors’
competencies/
capacity 0.27 0.06 0.28 4.42 0.00
Resource
Mobilization 0.33 0.07 0.32 4.46 0.00
Target Beneficiary
Participation 0.15 0.07 0.14 2.13 0.04
Political Goodwill 0.14 0.06 0.14 2.20 0.03
Monitoring
Evaluation 0.18 0.06 0.19 2.83 0.01
a Dependent Variable: Implementation of road projects in Wajir County
The regression coefficients results are presented in Table 4.11. The study findings show that
contractors’ competencies/capacity had a positive and significant influence on the
implementation of road projects in Wajir County given (β=0.271, t= 4.422, p=0.000, p<0.05).
These findings implied that a unit increase in contractors’ competencies/capacity would lead
to increased implementation of the road projects in the county by 0.271 units. The study
findings agree with that of Opuch (2016) who found that technical capacity, selection criteria
and the financial capacity of contractors affected the completion of road projects. The study
47
findings also supported that of Mydin, Sani, Taib, and Mohd (2014) and Kimemia (2015)
who found that financial problems of the contractor and their experience respectively
significantly influenced the delay of construction projects in the road sector.
The study also found that resource mobilization had a positive and significant influence on
the implementation of road projects in Wajir County as supported by (β=0.326, t= 4.455,
p=0.000, p<0.05). A unit increase in resource mobilization would lead to increased
implementation of road projects in the county by 0.326 units. The study supports the findings
of Wambui, Ombui, and Kagiri (2015) that adequacy of funds, their availability, management
of the funds, cost saving and accessibility of these funds influenced the completion of the
road projects. The findings also agreed with that of Maendo, James, and Ngugi (2018) who
noted that mobilization of financial resources had significant positive results on
accomplishment of roads construction projects. These findings were also in agreement with
that of Murithi, Makokha, and Otieno (2017) who noted that project resource allocation had a
significant influence on timely completion and success of public construction projects.
The study further found that target beneficiary participation had a positive and significant
influence on the implementation of road projects in Wajir County as shown by (β=0.145, t=
2.128, p=0.036, p<0.05). Increasing the level of target beneficiary participation by a unit
would lead to increased implementation of road projects in Wajir County by 0.145 units. The
study findings agreed with that Ndunda, Nyang’au, and Mbura (2017) who found that project
beneficiary participation positively and significantly influenced the achievement of road
projects by enhancing project acceptability which led to the projects being completed at the
required time limit. The findings were also consistent with that of Mwobobia (2013) who
found lack of community involvement resulted to late completion of the project and
adversely affected project sustainability.
It was further discovered that political goodwill and governance positively and significantly
influenced the implementation of road projects in the county (β=0.136, t= 2.202, p=0.030,
p<0.05). A unit increase in the political goodwill and governance would lead to increased
implementation of road projects in the county by 0.136 units. The study findings were
congruent with that of Kinyanjui, Bulitia, and Machogu (2016) and Adek (2016) who found
that governance standards significantly affected the implementation of projects by mitigating
the selection and planning projects to favour the personal interests of powerful project
stakeholders. The findings were in agreement with that of Zakayo (2017) who established
48
that political goodwill influenced the implementation of projects and recommended the
institution of strong policies that would help curb political selfishness which impeded
implementation of projects under the devolved system. The findings are also consistent with
that of Ogeno (2016) who found out that political interference, political hand in funds
disbursed per project and management autonomy played a critical in determining the success
or failure of the completion of construction projects.
The study also noted that M&E positively and significantly influenced the implementation of
road projects in Wajir County as shown by (β=0.178, t= 2.834, p=0.006, p<0.05). The
findings implied that increasing the level of M&E by a unit would result to increased
implementation of road projects in the county by 0.178 units. The findings relate to that of
Barasa (2014) who found that M&E tools had an influence on project completion. They are
also consistent with that of Sialala (2016) who found that timeliness, allocation of sufficient
budget for M&E process and quality of M&E integration positively affected the completion
of projects by revealing mistakes and offering paths for learning and improvements.
Furthermore, the study supported the study by Gichaiya (2016) which highlighted that M&E
had a significant effect on project implementation by significantly contributing to a project
working within the scheduled time frame and meeting of set quality standards during project
implementation.
49
CHAPTER FIVE
SUMMARY OF FINDINGS, CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS
5.1 Introduction
This chapter gives a summary of main study findings, the conclusions drawn and
recommendations made. This is guided by the study objectives.
5.2 Summary
Under this section, the main study results are summarized in accordance to the study
objectives.
The first study objective examined contractors’ competencies/capacity influence in

implementing road projects in Wajir County. The study found that contractors’
competencies/capacity had a positive and significant influence on the execution of road
projects in the county. The findings meant that enhanced contractors’ competencies/capacity
would lead to increased implementation of road projects in the county. Hence, the selection
and awarding of contracts to contactors with and based on the requisite technical and
financial capacity and also tactic knowledge, scrutinizing their experience and track records
before selection, ensuring effective coordination of contractors with other parties, ensuring
that their decisions are adequate and timely as well as pushing for excellent site and resource
management among the selected contractors was crucial in enhancing the implementation of
road projects in the county.
The second objective of the study was to establish the influence of resource mobilization on
implementation of road projects in Wajir County. The study established that the
implementation of road projects in the county was positively and significantly influence by
the level of resource mobilization. This implied that enhanced resource mobilization would
lead to increased implementation of road projects in the county. Therefore, the adequacy of
funds allocated to the projects, steady availability of these funds as planned for all project
activities, the prudent use and administration of the funds, minimal procedural delays in the
disbursement and ensuring timely payments to contractors for work were critical in
50
implementing projects. The commitment and continuity of financiers, the capacity of the
county government to mobilize considerable local fund and diversifying its sources of road
construction projects were also fundamental.
The third objective of the study was to determine the influence of target beneficiary
participation on implementation of road projects in Wajir County. The study discovered a
positive and significant influence of target beneficiary participation on the implementation of
road projects in Wajir County. The findings implied that increased target beneficiary
participation would lead to increased implementation of road projects in the county. Thus, the
active involvement of local residents in all phases of the road projects, their involvement in
needs’ appraisal through their community leaders, the participation of local residents in
project initiation and making the M&E of the projects a collective responsibility of all
stakeholders were crucial in enhancing the implementation of road projects in the county.
Furthermore, involvement of community leaders in the identification of corrective actions for
project issues and risks, enhanced two-way communication between project managers and
residents throughout project cycle and ensuring community representatives have access to
financial reports for all road projects played a great role in the implementation of road
projects in the county.
The fourth objective of the study was to explore the influence of political goodwill and
governance on implementation of road projects in Wajir County. The study found that
political goodwill and governance had a positive and significant influence on the
implementation of road projects in Wajir County. Increasing the level of political goodwill
and governance, therefore, would lead to enhanced implementation of the road projects in the
county. Hence, ensuring accountability and integrity among project parties including
politicians, ensuring little political influence on the road project decisions, transparency in the
selection of project management committees, setting up effective structures for limiting
politicians’ influence in the project cycle, ensuring that road project decisions are made in the
interest of stakeholders, obtaining consensus among political leaders on projects initiated as
well as limiting political patronage in the awarding of road contracts would go a long way in
enhancing the implementation of road projects in the county.
51
The final objective of the study was to find out the influence of M&E on implementation of
road projects in Wajir County. The study found that that M&E had a positive and significant
influence on the implementation of road projects in the county. Enhanced M&E would
therefore lead to increased implementation of road projects in the county. Therefore,
possession of an established framework and tools for project monitoring, continuous
checking of the physical and financial progress of road projects against established schedules
and budget plan, using appropriate evaluation reviews and reports throughout project
lifecycle and periodic site visits by the county transport and infrastructure committee were
fundamental in the implementation of road projects in the county. Moreover, emphasizes on
monitoring the road projects at frequent intervals and timely basis and ensuring that the
results and feedback from M&E of road projects were timely were of great importance in the
implementation of road projects in the county.
5.3 Conclusions
The main objective of the study was to assess the critical success factors in the
implementation of road projects in Wajir County, Kenya. Based on the study findings, the
study concluded that contractors’ competencies/capacity were a critical success factor in the
implementation of road projects in the county. The study concluded that the experience and
technical skills of road contractors, their knowledge and integrity, their decision making
capabilities as well as their financial power played a significant role in the implementation of
road projects in the county.
Similarly, the study concluded that resource mobilization was also a critical success factor in
the implementation of road projects in the county. The study also concluded that resource
mobilization had the largest influence on the implementation of the road projects in the
county. The study further concluded that adequacy and timeliness of funding, financing
methods and diversity of project fund sources greatly influenced the implementation of road
projects in the county. The study further concluded that target beneficiary participation as
exemplified by local residents’ participation and involvement in the evaluation, selection and
prioritization of the projects, following up or monitoring the projects and management of
project funds was fundamental in the implementation of road projects in Wajir County.
52
The study also concluded that political goodwill and governance was a critical success factor
in the implementation of road projects in Wajir County. The study concluded that the level of
involvement of politicians/political interference in projects, the level of political
goodwill/acceptance of projects, accountability, corruption, transparency in project leadership
as well as the selection criteria for project management committees significantly affected the
successful implementation of road projects in the county.
Last but not least, the study concluded that M&E was critical success factor in the
implementation of road projects in Wajir. The study concluded that the control mechanisms,
project reporting and reviews, project performance reviews and feedback framework, project
monitoring schedules as well as M&E audit follow ups were fundamental in the
implementation of road projects in the county.
The study also concluded that if the county was to witness improved implementation of road
projects in the county, emphasis had to be placed on enhancing the level of contractors’
competencies/capacity, resource mobilization, target beneficiary participation, political
goodwill and governance and M&E throughout the project lifecycles.
5.4 Recommendations
The study recommends that the county government should ensure that there are established
structures and guidelines which are adhered to during the selection of road contractors and
that measures are put in place to tame corruption and political influences in awarding of
contracts. The study also recommends that the county should have an established system
where the details and track records of road contactors who have worked before with the
county government are kept and integrated so that tracking of their delivery can easily be
undertaken to minimize recurring cases of selection of non-performing contractors.
The study also recommends that county government should devise innovative ways of raising
extra local funds to supplement the total funds from the central government to ensure
smoothing implementation of road projects. The study recommends that the county
government should diversify the sources of funding for infrastructure projects so as to avoid
runouts due to overdependence on one source of funding. The study also recommends timely
planning in implementing road projects in order to minimize the procedural delays in
disbursement of funds which derails the implementation of road projects in the county.
53
The study further recommends that there should be continuous stakeholder meetings and
forums and consultative meetings with community representatives in order to ensure that
residents are actively involved in all phases of the road project cycles. Education and
awareness campaigns should also be carried out in order to sensitive the local residents on
their role in pushing for effective and timely delivery of road projects in the county.
The study also recommends that there should be established structures and frameworks in
place to ensure transparency and accountability among all parties involved in the road project
implementation in the county. Selection of project committee members should be based on
merit and proper vetting and political influences for personal gains should be curtailed
through involvement of all stakeholders in the county.
The study further recommends that the county government should invest in new and creative
means and tools for M&E of road project implementation in the county and that all project
reviews and reports should be audited to establish their authenticity and accuracy. The study
also recommends the need for follow up on the implementation of recommendations from the
evaluations made on delivery of road projects and also the setting up of feedback systems to
ensure timely communication of findings on the project delivery. The study also recommends
that the county could contract an external professional to facilitate the M&E of the delivery
of road projects in order to ensure objective reports and reviews are made without biasness
and cases of coercion to given a contrary view on the delivery of the road projects in the
county. The study also recommends regular visits and evaluation of project progress in order
to encore that key issues are identified on time and timely action taken.
5.5 Suggestions for Further Research
The study recommends that the study can be replicated in other counties facing challenges in
the implementation of not only road projects but also other projects carried out at the county
level. The study also recommends that a study can be undertaken highlighting the factors
influencing the level of mentioned success factors such as resource mobilization and
M&Eand what strategies can be adopted to increase performance in these areas within the
project environment.
54
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APPENDICES
Appendix I: Questionnaire
Section A: Personal Information

1. What is your gender?
a. Male { } b. Female { }
2. What is your age bracket?
a. Below 25 years { }
b. 26-35 years { }
c. 36-45 years { }
d. 46-55 years { }
e. Above 55 years { }
3. What is highest level of education you have attained?
a. Certificate { }
b. Diploma { }
c. Undergraduate Degree { }
d. Master’s Degree { }
e. PhD { }
f. Others (specify) ……………………………………………………….
4. What is position do you hold in the county government or community?
a. County Transport and Infrastructure Department Official { }
b. County Project Management Committee member { }
c. Road contractor working with the county { }
d. Local community leader { }
5. For how long have you worked or served in the stated position?
a. Less than a year { }
b. 1 to 2 years { }
c. 3 to 4 years { }
d. Over 4 years { }
61
Section B: Contractors’ Competencies/Capacity
6. Please tick [√] only one option on the scale of 1=Strongly Disagree to 5=Strongly
Agree.
Statement SD D N A SA
Local contractors selected by the county have the

technical capacity to undertake road construction projects.
Awarding of road construction contracts in the county is

based on the company’s capacity and technical expertise.
The experience and track records of the road contractors

in the county are adequately scrutinized before their
selection
The road contractors selected by the county effectively

coordinate with other parties involved in the road projects
Contractors selected to undertake road projects in the

county have substantial finances and do not rely on the
county to release payment for construction
The selected road contractors and their project team have

the required tacit knowledge to undertake road projects in
the county
The decisions made by road contractors on various

aspects of the road projects in the county are always
timely and adequate
There is excellent site and resource management by road

contactors in the various road projects in the county
62
Section C: Resource Mobilization
7. Please tick [√] only one option on the scale of 1 to 5.
There are adequate funds allocated to finance road

projects in this county
There is steady availability of resources as planned for

all activities throughout the road projects’ duration
There is prudent use and administration of road project

funds in the county
There is commitment and continuity of lead financiers

of road projects in the county
There are no procedural delays in the disbursement of

road projects funds in the county
There is timely payment of advance, progress and

completed road works in the county
The county government has been able to mobilize

considerable amount of funds locally to support road
projects within the county
The county government has been able to mobilize

diverse resources for road project implementation
63
Section D: Target Beneficiary Participation
Local residents are actively involved in all phases of

road projects in the county
Local community leaders have been involved in the

needs appraisal of road projects in the county
Initiation of new road projects is a collective

responsibility that involves all local residents
The views, concerns and recommendations of local

residents are always sort throughout the road project
cycles
“M&E of road projects in the county is a collective

responsibility that involves all stakeholders
There is two-way communication between project

managers and local residents throughout road project
cycle in this county
Community representatives have access to financial

reports for all road projects in the county for increased
transparency and accountability
64
Section E: Political Goodwill and Governance

There is little influence of most road project decisions

by the politics of the time in this county
The selection of road project management committees in

the county is always transparent
There are effective structures for limiting the level of

involvement of politicians in all the phases of road
projects in the county
Decisions pertaining to road projects in the county are

made in the best interests of the wider stakeholder
community
There is consensus among local political leaders in all

the road projects initiated in the county
There are no cases of political patronage in the road

contracts in the county
65
Section F: Monitoring and Evaluation
There is an established framework and tools needed to

monitor road projects in the county
There is continuous checking of the physical and

financial progress of road projects in the county against
established schedules and budget plan
Appropriate evaluation reviews and reports are usually

used throughout the lifecycle of road projects in the
county
Audit follow-ups are implemented during M&E

throughout lifecycle of road projects in the county
The county transport and infrastructure committee

makes periodic visits to the road project sites and
inspects the projects and books of accounts
County project supervisors emphasize the importance of

monitoring road projects at frequent intervals and on a
timely basis
Results and feedback from M&E of road projects in the

county are timely
66
Section G: Implementation of Road Projects in Wajir County
11. Please tick [√] only one option on the scale of 1 to 5.”
Key: 1= Very Poor, 2= Poor, 3= Average, 4= Good and 5= Very Good
Statement 1 2 3 4 5
Level to which the project has directly benefited the intended

users
Level of satisfaction with the road projects among the

residents
Level to which the local communities feel part and

parcel of project
Level of adherence to project budgets during the

implementation of road projects
Level of successful completion of road projects on time
Level to which the road projects in the county have been

completed
Level of adherence to road project schedules
Level of adherence to set quality standards and road

project specifications
Level of adherence to road project sustainability
67
Appendix II: Authorization for Data Collection
68
Appendix III: Research Permit
69

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CRITICAL SUCCESS FACTORS AND IMPLEMENTATION OF ROAD PROJECTS

IN WAJIR COUNTY, KENYA

MUKTAR AHMED OSMAN

A RESEARCH PROJECT SUBMITTED TO THE SCHOOL OF BUSINESS IN

Signature: ……………………………………… Date: ………………………

Muktar Ahmed Osman

Signature: …………………………… Date: ………………………….

Ms. Gladys Kimutai

Lecturer, Department of Management Science

DEDICATION .................................................................................................................. III

TABLE OF CONTENTS ................................................................................................... V

LIST OF FIGURES .......................................................................................................... IX

LIST OF TABLES ............................................................................................................. X

ABBREVIATIONS AND ACRONYMS .......................................................................... XI

OPERATIONAL DEFINITION OF TERMS................................................................ XII

CHAPTER ONE ................................................................................................................. 1

1.1 Background of the Study ................................................................................................. 1

1.1.1 Project Implementation ............................................................................................. 2

1.1.2 Organizational Contextual Factors and Implementation of Road Projects ................. 3

1.1.3 Road Construction Projects in Wajir County............................................................. 4

1.2 Statement of the Problem ................................................................................................ 5

1.3 General Objective of the Study ........................................................................................ 6

1.3.1 Specific Objectives of the Study ............................................................................... 7

1.4 Research Questions ......................................................................................................... 7

1.5 Significance of the Study................................................................................................. 7

1.6 Scope of the Study........................................................................................................... 9

1.7 Limitations of the Study .................................................................................................. 9

1.8 Organization of the Study .............................................................................................. 10

CHAPTER TWO .............................................................................................................. 11

LITERATURE REVIEW ................................................................................................. 11

2.2 Theoretical Review ....................................................................................................... 11

2.2.1 Theory of Project Management ............................................................................... 11

2.2.2 Participatory Development Theory ......................................................................... 12

2.2.3 Program Theory...................................................................................................... 13

2.3 Empirical Review .......................................................................................................... 15

2.3.1 Contractors’ Competencies/Capacity and Implementation of Road Projects ............ 15

2.3.2 Resource Mobilization and Implementation of Road Projects ................................. 16

2.3.3 Target Beneficiary Participation and Implementation of Road Projects ................... 19

2.3.5 M&E and Implementation of Road Projects ............................................................ 23

2.4 Summary of Literature and Research Gaps .................................................................... 25

2.5 Conceptual Framework ................................................................................................. 26

CHAPTER THREE .......................................................................................................... 28

RESEARCH METHODOLOGY ..................................................................................... 28

3.1 Introduction ................................................................................................................... 28

3.2 Research Design ............................................................................................................ 28

3.3 Target Population .......................................................................................................... 28

3.4 Sample Size and Sampling Procedures .......................................................................... 29

3.5 Data Collection Instrument and Procedures ................................................................... 30

3.6 Pilot Testing .................................................................................................................. 31

3.6.1 Validity of the Instrument ....................................................................................... 31

3.6.2 Reliability of the Instrument ................................................................................... 31

3.7 Data Analysis and Presentation...................................................................................... 32

3.8 Ethical Considerations ................................................................................................... 33

CHAPTER FOUR ............................................................................................................. 34

4.1 Introduction ................................................................................................................... 34

4.2 Response Rate ............................................................................................................... 34

4.3 Demographic Information of the Respondents. .............................................................. 34

4.3.1 Gender of the Respondents ..................................................................................... 34

4.3.2 Age Bracket of the Respondents ............................................................................. 35

4.3.3 Highest Level of Education of the Respondents ...................................................... 36

4.3.4 Position within the County Government ................................................................. 36

4.3.5 Years Served in the Stated Position......................................................................... 37