Project Management Discipline and Performance of Road Construction Projects in Meru County, Kenya

Many countries across the world are investing heavily in road infrastructure projects performance as a way of boosting their both local economies. However, global statistics indicate that 66 % of road construction projects perform poorly as they fail to meet their project budget and time quality. Studies further indicate that poor road construction project performance was linked to poor project management practices. Specifically, the study focused on project stakeholder and procurement management. Studies done on road construction projects in Meru revealed that all projects experienced costs overrun and 25 % underwent project slippage. The specific objectives of this research were; to investigate the effect of stakeholders and procurement management on road construction projects performance in Meru County, Kenya. The study employed a descriptive survey study design. Stratified random sampling was employed in the selection of study respondents. A sample size of 44 respondents was drawn from a target population. Semi-structured questionnaires were presented to participants to collect data and later analyzed using SPSS for inferential and descriptive statistics. Regression and correlation analyses were conducted to determine and explain the degree of relationship that exists between the predictor and dependent variables. Diagnostic tests (normality and multicollinearity) were conducted to check for data distribution and the multicollinearity symptom. Qualitative data was analyzed using content analysis. Results were presented using tables, charts, and graphs with percentages. The analysis revealed that stakeholder and procurement management were significantly and positively correlated with the Meru County road construction project performance. Regression analysis established that stakeholder and procurement management had a statistical positive and significant effect on project performance although they were not fully practiced. The study recommended that the management of Meru County road construction projects should provide proper training, accept stakeholder group representative and insist on involvement. Finally, the management should ensure appropriate procurement practices are well defined and followed.