Factors influencing project initiation in Kenya: a case of bible translation and literacy projects in coast region

Abstract

The purpose of the study was to establish factors influencing project initiation in Kenya: a case of Bible translation and literacy projects in Coast region and the data was carried out within the Giryama and Waata projects. The objectives of the study were to examine the influence of resources, cultural factors, stakeholder participation, and the role of technical expertise in project initiation. Research questions to guide the study were developed from the above objectives and they are as follows; to what extent does availability of resources to projects influence project initiation?, to what level do cultural factors of the community influence project initiation?, to what degree does stakeholders participation influence project initiation and to what magnitude does technical expertise influence the initiation of a project? The research design selected for this study was descriptive research with a sample size of 360 people selected from 2613people comprising of Project staff, Project Advisory Committee, Church Leaders and Chiefs selected through purposive sampling. Data was collected through written questionnaires, one on one discussion and focus group discussion by the researcher and research assistants. The collected data was analysed manually by the use of descriptive statistics such as percentages, frequencies with the help of a computer package known as SPSS and was presented using tables. The study established that availability of resources, consideration of cultural factors, stake-holder’s participation and the use of technical expertise has a significant role in the initiation of projects. The recommendations from the above study were as follows: A wider baseline survey would be appropriate in order to lay a firm foundation forth initiated projects. A public relations department at project level is mandatory to promote the level of Stakeholder participation if projects have to be self-sustainable after BTL (funder) withdraws. The BTL and community memorandum of understanding especially on issues of mobilizing resources have to be clear to the community and be strictly adhered to. Stakeholders should be given time to establish CBO’S and begin the projects (initiate the projects before BTL comes in) in a small way as they get assisted to catch up the vision before BTL comes in full support. Literacy and Community Development projects should spearhead translation work especially in none Christian communities to alleviate hunger and poverty before beginning translating the word in the language of the heart (mother tongue) to enhance assimilation of the community into translation.