Influence of PMC empowerment on implementation Infrastructure projects in public institutions in Nyatike constituency; Migori county, Kenya

Abstract

Unemployment is steadily increasing in many countries across the world, yet so acute in developing countries with relatively explosive population parameters, that job creation becomes the focus of all nations. This study focused on the influence of PMC Empowerment on implementation of infrastructure projects in public institutions in Nyatike Constituency. the study was grounded on the objectives; PMC access to information on implementation of infrastructure projects, PMC training on implementation of infrastructure projects, PMC access to resources on implementation of infrastructure projects and PMC participation on implementation of infrastructure projects in Nyatike Constituency. It was believed that the results of the study would of great significance to PMCs implementing infrastructure projects in Nyatike Constituency, in particular and any other persons engaged in different projects in the country, in general. In the light of that eventuality, the study would offer insights into superior practices worth embracing for effective project implementation. Besides, the study would also be significant to the government in formulating policies that would be favorable to implementation of projects as alternative employment opportunities. Moreover, the study would also benefit other development partners such as the Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) and other donors to adopt suitable measures for gainful project implementation. The study was grounded on the theory of social action by Slocum (1962) and Rothman (1968). Descriptive survey research design was used in the study targeting a population of 1500 PMC Members, from which a sample was 10% of the target population (150) respondents was drawn. Data was collected using questionnaire, which was pretested to establish its effectiveness. Validity was ascertained through adequate courage of research objectives, expert judgment and peer review, while reliability was measured using slit- half method in which a coefficient correlation of 0.84 (alpha value) was obtained proving that the instrument was very reliable. Data was analysed using descriptive statistics such as percentages and frequencies and presented 'using frequency tables. The study findings revealed that PMCs implementing infrastructure projects in Nyatike Constituency had inadequate training relevant to project management, notwithstanding the fact that the respondents had indicated that training was very significant to effective project implementation. By and large, the study acknowledged that adequate resources, access to information and PMC participation had significant influence on implementation of infrastructure projects in public institutions in Nyatike Constituency. The study recommended that training of PMC Members be emphasized, resources be adequately allocated, exposure be encouraged and PMC participation be stressed to enhance project implementation. For further research, the study recommended; research on influence of leadership and aspects of cultural practices on project implementation be undertaken.