Effect of Project Management Practices on Project Sustainability: A Case of Ntunga Drilling Project in Rwamagana District, Rwanda

Byishimo Daima & Jean de Dieu Dushimimana
University of Kigali
https://orcid.org/0009-0001-8261-0632
Email: daimaalida@gmail.com

Abstract: Rwanda’s mining sector has recorded impressive growth, yet the sustainability of mining projects remains a pressing concern because revenue expansion does not automatically guarantee durable environmental, social, and operational benefits. The purpose of this study was to assess the effect of project management practices on the sustainability of a project in the mining sector, with specific reference to Ntunga Drilling Project in Rwamagana District. The study was guided by four specific objectives: to assess the effect of project planning on Data collection instruments include documentation review and structured questionnaires. Quantitative data were analyzed using SPSS version 29 through descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation, and multiple regression. The regression findings showed that project planning significantly affected sustainability with B = 0.206, t = 3.433, and p = 0.001. Risk management had a significant effect on sustainability with B = 0.201, t = 2.831, and p = 0.006. Stakeholder management also significantly affected sustainability with B = 0.286, t = 3.620, and p = 0.000. MEAL had the strongest significant effect on sustainability with B = 0.288, t = 3.000, and p = 0.004. The study concluded that project planning, risk management, stakeholder management, and MEAL significantly contributed to sustainability of Ntunga Drilling Project by strengthening direction, preparedness, ownership, accountability, and learning. “It is recommended that the Ntunga Drilling Project strengthen its project planning and risk management practices to enhance operational effectiveness and overall project performance. Future researchers should examine environmental sustainability, community participation, and monitoring and evaluation practices within Rwanda’s mining and drilling sector.