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Performance Contracting and Service Delivery in County Governments in Kenya: A Case of Kakamega County
No full textCounty governments have implemented a variety of strategies, including performance contracting, to improve service delivery. However, they have been shown to perform poorly. This is despite receiving a significant portion of the national budget to carry out their mandates. This means that the effects of a performance contracting strategy in counties must be thoroughly examined in order to understand the exact situation on the ground and its true value. Based on these arguments, the study looked into how performance contracting affected service delivery in Kakamega County Government. The study was founded on three theories: expectancy theory, goal setting theory, and the dynamics of service delivery. The study was guided by four specific objectives: determining the impact of target setting on service delivery; establishing the effect of vetting and negotiation on service delivery; determining the effect of execution on service delivery; and determining the impact of monitoring and evaluation on service delivery. The research used a descriptive research design. The study included 142 respondents from Kakamega's Executive and County Assembly. Each respondent was given a questionnaire that they could fill out themselves. The collected data was analysed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS). The data underwent descriptive analysis and was presented in the form of frequencies, percentages, means, and standard deviations. To test the hypotheses, we used regression analysis. The findings resulted in the rejection of three null hypotheses: a significant relationship between the independent and dependent variables was identified. As a result, the study concluded that target setting, execution, monitoring, and evaluation all have a positive impact on service delivery. The findings would help policymakers at both levels of government make decisions about how to strengthen performance contracts. The study findings will help the incoming governor of the County Government of Kakamega identify areas for improvement in service delivery, and the task force on performance contracting policy will benefit from the findings.
Keywords: Performance, Contracting, Service Delivery, County Governments, Kakamega Count
Influence of Resource Planning on Project Performance in Rwanda: A Case Study of Construction of New Maternity Project at King Faisal Hospital in Kigali
No full textThe general objective of this study was to assess the effect of Resource Planning on Performance of new maternity project at King Faisal Hospital. Specific objectives were to find out the influence of human resource planning on performance of new maternity project at King Faisal Hospital, assess the influence of the material resource planning on performance of new maternity project at King Faisal Hospital, examine the influence of financial resource planning on performance of new maternity project at King Faisal Hospital and find out the influence of time planning on performance of new maternity project at King Faisal Hospital. For this study the population where 360 participants may include project staff, consultants and sub-contractors. The sample size was 184 people have project successes in on performance of new maternity project at King Faisal Hospital. The choice of data collection tools depends on the research objectives, the type of data needed, and the preferences of the researcher. Documentation, Questionnaires, Interviews, and Observations were used as tools of data collection. Understanding the correlation between resource planning and project performance were not only benefit project managers in enhancing their decision-making process but also contribute to the broader field of project management by providing evidence-based best practices. Statistical Package for the Social Sciences for quantitative data analysis, including descriptive statistics, correlation analysis, regression analysis, and inferential statistics. The findings indicate a one-unit increase in Human Resource Planning corresponds to a 0.538 unit increase in Project Performance (β=0.538 t=6.896 p value = 0.000). Similarly, a one-unit increase in Material Resource Planning corresponds to a 0.243 unit increase in Project Performance (β=0.243 t=2.792 p value = 0.006). A one-unit increase in Financial Resource Planning leads to a 0.237 unit increase in Project Performance (β=.0237 t=3.645 p value = 0.000), and a one-unit increase in Time Planning corresponds to a 0.201 unit increase in Project Performance (β=0.201 t=2.092 p value = 0.037). All predictors have extremely low significance values (all less than 0.05). The King Faisal Hospital should prioritize effective human resource planning through skill assessment and teamwork, nurture vendor relationships for efficient material planning, establish clear budget allocation mechanisms for financial planning, and implement complex project management tools to enhance time planning and new maternity project performance.
Key words: Resource Planning, human resource planning, material resource planning, financial resource planning, time planning, project performanc
Influence of Resource Allocation on Performance of Kigali Infrastructure Project
No full textThe effectiveness of resource allocation can be measured in terms of the extent to which it influences project performance. Due to project management requirements to deliver projects within the specified time, budget and that satisfy client needs it is imperative that resources are well allocated to ensure high project performance. Therefore, there is need for project managers to know what they need to make a project successful so that they can effectively plan out the optimal way to use those resources towards better performance of the projects. Thus, the aim of this study was the assessment of how the allocation of resources influences the performance of Kigali Infrastructure Project. This study determined how factors like the identification, estimation, the allocation and monitoring of resources are influencing the success of Kigali Infrastructure Project. The study was guided by the theory of project management, theory of constraints, the resource-based view theory, and the theory of change. A inferential survey design was adopted in this research. The target population was 155 project stakeholders consisting of 90 contractor’s staff, 20 consultant’s staff, 11 staff from MININFRA, 19 staff from City of Kigali and 15 staff from RTDA who were engaged in the phase 1 project within Kigali Infrastructure Project for the period 2021-2022. Selection of the sample was done using stratified random sampling. Semi-structured questionnaires were utilized in gathering of primary data. Analysis of quantitative data was done using descriptive and inferential statistics with use of Statistical Package for Social Sciences. A multiple linear regression model aided in indicating links between resources allocation and performance of Kigali Infrastructure Project. Resource identification, resource estimation, resource allocation and resource monitoring were found to have a positive and significant effect on project performance. The study concluded that a key benefit to resource identification is that it helps organizations to fulfill task specifications efficiently. Successful resource estimation allows in different ways to solve problems related to resource availability and job efficiency. Efficient resource allocation allows project managers prepare to allocate resources to the task and effectively manage them. Reporting requires daily tracking of key elements of project performance in terms of inputs, actions, and outcomes. The study recommended that project identification should be such as to cope efficiently with the project's needs. On resource estimation, the project should begin with a specified planning strategy and this method is likely to change as the plan progresses and changes take place. The aim is to stay informed and agile and to resolve as quickly as possible all estimates’ issues. On resource allocation, the study recommended that project managers should be mindful of the scope of the project they are operating on, because the greater the nature of the project, the more they will decide how to distribute the money. On resource monitoring, the study recommended that project management during the execution of the plan and should include cost-control strategies, deadlines and deliverables techniques, quality standards approaches and more. The study suggests that further studies should be carried out on how project resource management practices affect the performance of road projects in other regions of Rwanda.
Keywords: Resource Allocation, Resource Identification, Resource Estimation, Resource Prioritization, Resource Monitoring & Adjustment, and Performance
Effect of Project Management Practices on Project Performance, Case of USAID Soma Umenye Project in Nyamagabe District, Rwanda
No full textThe researcher aimed to highlight the effect of project management practices on project Performance. Effective project management is a key strategic capability that allows organizations to bridge the gap between project Performance and their business goals. The general objective of this study was to assess the effect of project management practices on the Performance of the USAID Soma Umenye project. The study was guided by three research objectives namely: to examine the effect of project scope management on the Performance of the USAID Soma Umenye project; To explore the effect of effective stakeholder management on the Performance of the USAID Soma Umenye project; and to assess the effect of project human resource management on the Performance of USAID Soma Umenye project. This research adopted correlative study design. The study focused on the USAID Soma Umenye project in Rwanda specifically in Nyamagabe District. Project management practices were evaluated by USAID Soma Umenye project implementers, partners, and beneficiaries. The population of the study was 315 participants in the USAID Soma Umenye project in Nyamagabe District. The sample size was 176 respondents; it was calculated by using Solvin’s sample size formula. The study was limited to Nyamagabe district, specifically in 5 sectors Gasaka, Tare, Kitabi, Kibilizi, and Cyanika. The respondents are a subset of P3 teachers, headteachers, and all SEIs of those sectors, DEO, DDE of Nyamagabe District, USAID Soma Umenye project staff at Nyamagabe district and national level. The researcher used two tools of data collection in the study including questionnaires and documentary reviews. The researcher used SPSS as a tool for data analysis. The findings revealed that there is positive and significant effect of project scope management on Performance of USAID Soma Umenye project, (β = 0.45; p-value < 5%),), hence the first hypothesis is rejected. The study findings indicated that there is positive and insignificant effect of stakeholder on Performance of USAID Soma Umenye project (β = 461; p-value < 5%), hence the second hypothesis was accepted. Thirdly, it was discovered that there is positive and significant effect of project HR management on Performance of USAID Soma Umenye project (β = 0.532; p-value < 5%), hence the third hypothesis was rejected. For recommendations, the management was suggested to get strong structure in promoting effective communication within any project. In addition, let the local leaders be part of the projects since these are same people that are always be in the communities even after the closure of the projects.
Key words: Project Management Practices, Project Scope Management, Stakeholder Management, Project Human Resource Management and Project Performance
Stakeholder Identification and Performance of World Bank Funded Projects in Kenya
No full textThe study sought to investigate the influence of stakeholder identification on the performance of World Bank funded projects in Kenya and to examine the moderating effect of project environment on this relationship. The purpose was grounded in the context of infrastructure development's crucial role in determining a country's overall productivity and economic development. However, performance issues in World Bank funded projects in Kenya, due to delays and limited stakeholder consultation, necessitated this investigation. The study adopted a positivism philosophy and employed a cross-sectional survey design, focusing on all 62 World Bank funded projects completed between 2016 and 2021. The target population consisted of 310 individuals, including project managers, coordinators, supervisors, monitoring and evaluation officials, and representatives from the National Treasury. Simple random sampling was used to select respondents, and primary data was collected through a self-administered questionnaire, supplemented by secondary data. Descriptive statistics, such as frequency, percentages, mean, and standard deviation, described the characteristics of the variables. Multiple regression models established relationships between the variables, and qualitative data underwent content analysis. The research instruments were validated through a pilot study. The findings revealed that stakeholder identification significantly influences the performance of World Bank funded projects in Kenya, rejecting the null hypothesis (H01). The coefficient of determination (R Square) of 0.679 indicates that stakeholder identification accounts for approximately 67.9% of the variance in project performance, highlighting its substantial impact. The ANOVA results further support this relationship, with a highly significant F-statistic of 247.318 (p < 0.001), indicating that the model incorporating stakeholder identification is a good fit for explaining project performance. Model coefficients revealed a strong positive relationship between stakeholder identification and project performance, with a standardized coefficient (beta) of 0.824, indicating a significant influence. The study concludes that stakeholder identification plays a critical role in the performance of World Bank funded projects in Kenya. The study recommends enhancing stakeholder identification practices and considering the project environment to improve the effectiveness of these projects.
Key words: Stakeholder identification, Project Environment, Project Implementation, World Bank funded projects, Performance
Relationship between Product Promotion Strategy and Organizational Performance of Maize Seed Companies in Kenya
No full textOrganizational performances of seed companies’ encounter competitive market forces that exposed the vulnerability of industry in today’s economy. New company concepts, varying customer wants and sophistication, and fierce market rivalry have altered business practices. The issues that companies’ organizations confront today across the world include new advancements and an unpredictable, dynamic market. The main purpose of the study was to evaluate relationship between product promotion strategy and organizational performance of maize seed companies in Kenya. The study was guided by Marketing Mix Theory. This study adopted correlational research design. The target population was 1014 employees from 14 maize seed companies in Kenya. The sample size was determined using Yamane (1967) formula which gave a sample size of 286 respondents (114 Marketing officers & 172 Sales officers). Data collection instrument for the study was questionnaires. The data collected was analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Analyzed data was presented using tables. The study results showed that product promotion strategy influence on organizational performance of maize seed companies in Kenya. Maize seed companies use direct marketing which has led to an increase in profit. Maize seed companies in Kenya use advertising to present product and ideas to the customers. Product promotion strategy has a positive and statistically significant effect on organizational performance of maize seed companies in Kenya with (r=0.652; p<0.05). In conclusion sales promotions increase sales volumes, attract new customers, encourage loyalty and repeat purchases, get insights into customer behaviour and respond to opportunities in the market. The study recommends to the managers of maize seed companies to factor in sales product promotion to create customer-product interest and brand awareness since majority of the maize seed companies in Kenya do not access all potential customers because of limited sales promotion.
Key words: Product promotion strategy, organizational performance & maize seed companies
Lexical Variations in the Ewe Language Spoken In Ho in the Volta Region of Ghana
No full textThe study was conducted to investigate the lexical variances observed in the Ewe language spoken among the Ho group. This study aims to examine the observed variations in speech patterns among both indigenous individuals and immigrants residing in the vicinity of Ho, the capital city of the Volta Region. The data analysis used the application of Labov's variationist theory from 1996 and Giles' speech accommodation theory from 1973. Information was gathered from native communities and those who had migrated to the area under investigation. The research employed a qualitative methodology and utilized purposive sampling procedures. The data were acquired through the utilization of observational methods, interviews, and the analysis of live radio broadcasts. Investigations have uncovered substantial regional and social disparities in the Ewe language spoken in Ho, leading to the utilization of distinct linguistic characteristics in everyday communication. The dialects within the speech community exhibit lexical, phonological, and grammatical diversity. There are some lexicons that the three dialects share, while others are unique to only two of the three dialects. Additionally, there are certain lexicons that are different from one dialect to another. The study provides confirmation that the dialectal backgrounds of language users within the speech community do not have an impact on the issue of mutual understanding. This is evident from the fact that the Euedome, Aŋlↄ and Tↄŋu dialects can be considered as being mutually intelligible.
Keywords: Lexical, variation, ewe language, Euedome and Tↄŋu or Aŋlↄ, Tↄŋu, H
School Dropout and Students’ Academic Performance in Public Twelve Years Basic Education Schools of Rwanda
No full textThe school dropout rate reduces significantly the school productivity including the students’ academic performance mostly in twelve years basic education in Rwanda. The purpose of this study therefore sought to establish the relationship between school dropout and student’s academic performance in public twelve years’ basic education schools of Burera District in Rwanda. Correlation research design was employed. The target population was 3575 people and Yamane (1967) formula was used to get the sample size of 360 respondents. Questionnaire and interview guide were used during data collection. IMB SPSS software version 20 was used in management of quantitative data. The findings revealed that 79.2% strongly agreed that poor attendance can lead to school dropout. It was also noted that 79.4% strongly agreed that getting low Scores in examination can be considered as poor learning perspective. The findings also revealed that there is a statistical relationship between school dropout and student’s academic performance in public twelve years’ basic education schools. The study concludes that there was a positive and statistically significant relationship between school dropout and students' academic performance in public twelve years' basic education schools in Burera District. The study recommends that school head teachers should be held accountable for reducing the student dropout rate in secondary schools. They should also collaborate with stakeholders to secure effective resources for food preparation in schools. Additionally, the Ministry of Education (MINEDUC) should change the method by which it obtains funds to sustain school feeding programs. Although it may be difficult and complicated, schools and parents should work together to provide varied meals for students.
Keywords: School dropout, students’ academic performance, school enrolment and twelve Years Basic education, Rwand
The Interdisciplinarity of Language and Society: Gender Variation Variable
No full textThe interrelationship between language and society, which serves as the basis for much of contemporary linguistic research, asserts that language not only reflects but also influences societal structures. This notion challenges the traditional linguistic paradigms established by figures like Noam Chomsky and Ferdinand de Saussure, promoting a shift toward a more interdisciplinary approach. Drawing from the epistemological foundations of social sciences such as ethnography, anthropology, and sociology, as well as traditional dialectology, the field of sociolinguistics has emerged in response. One significant development within sociolinguistics is Variationism, a subfield that evolved from the quantitative revolution. This theoretical model highlights how societal variations in language use can be systematically studied and understood, reflecting the dynamic interplay between linguistic expression and social identity (Hernández-Campoy, 2014: 7). This continuous comparison between current linguistic states and historical contexts suggests that while much progress has been made, the propensity to revisit and reevaluate past findings remains crucial in understanding the evolving dynamics of language and society
No Learner Should Be Left Out: A Systematic Review of Perceived Effects of Inter Class Cognitive Classroom Streaming in Secondary Schools in Sub Saharan Africa
No full textInter-class cognitive classroom streaming has been one of the most contentious and divisive educational issues and practices. It is associated with negative outcomes, such as excluding other learners, lowering low-performing learners' self-esteem and confidence, and u3ltimately leading to a loss of interest in learning. However, research on its non-academic effects, such as its impact on learners' psychosocial well-being, is still limited, particularly in developing countries such as Uganda and South Africa. In addition, there are still few systematic reviews that can provide a comprehensive synthesis of the available information in the context of Sub-Saharan Africa. As a result, this review investigates not only the effects of inter-class cognitive classroom streaming in secondary schools, but also the learners' psychosocial well-being, with the goal of informing intervention strategies into the practice in order to reduce its negative outcomes. The systematic review was guided by the Frame of Reference theory. This conceptual paper employs a systematic review approach, with Google Scholar and Scopus Database search engines used to locate peer-reviewed articles from journals, conference proceedings, and book chapters relevant to the research. A mix of journal articles, conference proceedings, and book chapters published between 2008 and 2023 were considered for the study based on specific inclusion and exclusion criteria. The paper covered the following topics: the history of inter-class cognitive classroom streaming in Sub-Saharan Africa, the effects of inter-class cognitive classroom streaming, best practices for effective Cognitive Classroom streaming implementation, and intervention strategies to mitigate the practice's perceived negative effects. The study found that inter-class cognitive classroom streaming undermines the inclusion of students with learning disabilities, negatively impacting their emotional and psychological well-being and, as a result, deteriorating their academic performance. Teaching and learning should increase student engagement, regardless of cognitive abilities, and improve academic achievement while encouraging meaningful learning experiences and positive learning environments.
Keywords: Cognitive-Based Classroom Streaming, Learner, Secondary Schools, Sub-Saharan Afric