Factors influencing successful implementation of community-based projects: A case of food security projects in Kiambu

Abstract

Most of the community based projects experience major hurdles in their life cycle and barely overcome the implementation stage. The major factors contributing to this trend have not been clearly understood. Consequently, this limits the ability of community development workers and development partners in executing successful and sustainable projects. The objectives of the study were to investigate if Community participation, management of funds, institutional capacities and sustainability influence successful implementation of community based projects. Four research questions were formulated to guide the study. The target population for this study consisted of 141 project leaders in community based projects in Kiambu County. The research used a descriptive survey design, stratified random sampling technique in selecting the projects and purposive sampling in selecting the key respondents. Data was collected using structured questionnaires and Statistical package for social sciences (SPSS) was used to analyze data that was then presented in tables, bar charts and percentages. The findings showed that community participation, management of funds and institutional capacity are paramount for community based projects to accomplish their mandate. Planning for projects sustainability is also conducive for successful implementation of community based projects. Recommendations drawn from the analyzed data were community participation should be improved, provision of training in proper management of funds for project leaders and involvement of project members. Planning for project sustainability and increasing institutional capacity in community based projects through periodic trainings was also found important for project’s success. Relevant development agencies may adopt the findings of the study. The findings may also be used as a basis for further research with the aim of increasing successes in community based projects in Kiambu County