Influence of Stakeholders’ Engagement on Project Performance of the Green Gicumbi Project

Fidele Kwizera
University of Kigali, Rwanda
Email: Kwizera.fidele@yahoo.fr

Abstract: This study examined how stakeholder engagement affects project performance, focusing on Rwanda’s Green Gicumbi Project. Guided by stakeholder theory, it evaluated the impact of stakeholder involvement in planning, decision-making, and implementation phases. Using a mixed-methods approach, the study gathered data from 150 respondents, including project managers, team members, and local officials. Data analysis involved descriptive statistics, regression, and ANOVA. Findings showed that engagement in decision-making (mean = 3.675) and implementation (mean = 3.662) significantly improved project performance. Planning engagement (mean = 3.723) also had a positive, though slightly weaker, effect. Regression analysis revealed a strong positive correlation (R = 0.702) between stakeholder engagement and project performance, explaining 49.3% of the variance (R² = 0.493). The Durbin-Watson statistic (0.085) indicated positive autocorrelation. ANOVA results (F = 143.807, p = 0.000) confirmed the significant influence of stakeholder engagement. The study concludes that stakeholder engagement is essential for project success. It recommends prioritizing stakeholder involvement in all phases, improving decision-making, and integrating feedback into planning. Policymakers should promote supportive environments through training, incentives, and continuous engagement. These findings provide key insights for enhancing project outcomes through strategic stakeholder management.