Influence of Institutional factors in timely completion of infrastructure projects: a case of world bank financed projects in the road sub-sector in Kenya.

Abstract

Infrastructure is an important factor in development of any given nation. The Kenya Government has invested heavily and continues to invest in infrastructure. World Bank and other development partners have also supported the country by committing large sums of money in infrastructure. Despite the importance of infrastructure and the billions of dollars committed to it, project are never completed on time. Unfortunately this has a negative effect because delayed completion of projects results in time overrun, cost overrun, disputes, litigations and sometimes complete abandonment of important projects. Secondly, project beneficiaries are deprived of the benefits that would have accrued from timely completion of the project. In addition the reputation of the financial institution is also at stake as it is associated with such projects. This study sought to establish influence of institutional factors in timely completion of infrastructure projects: A case of World Bank financed projects in the road sub-sector in Kenya. The study used descriptive research design. A research questionnaire was distributed to 40 respondents from World Bank staff, Implementing Agencies (that is, KENHA and KURA) and Ministry of Road officials. Quantitative data was analyzed through the use of descriptive statistics, which included frequencies and percentages using SPSS. Content analysis was used for qualitative analysis. The study also conducted inferential analysis. The study found that procurement procedures in the government, poor procurement documentation and absences of procurement plans are highly significance in contributing to delays in timely completion of road construction projects in Kenya. The management style employed in the delivery of the project does significantly influence project delivery time. For a project to be successful there must be an improved appreciation of the role of project management within projects, and this role must be placed within the context of a wider project alongside other outside criteria and long-term expectations. Integrating technology into project management process could be one of the best ways that contribute to project success. There should be monitoring and evaluation at all stages of project implementation including concept and design stages, thorough project feasibility studies, formulation of policies to minimize political interference, monitoring of procurement process, adequate and proper design of projects, proper specialization of duties, tasks and responsibilities, transparency and accountability, proper financial planning and capacity building. From the findings and conclusions, for a project to be successful there must be an improved appreciation of the role of project management within projects, and this role must be placed within the context of a wider project alongside other outside criteria and long-term expectations. In addition development partners should harmonize their approval and reporting requirements, there should be frequent World Bank organized clinics on procurement and financial management, implementing agencies should be empowered to take decisions in good time. With these remedial measures, there should be an improvement in the timely completion of projects.