Influence of Work Breakdown Structure on the Performance of the Rurambi Rice Project
Mutsinzi Aime – School of Business and Economics, Mount Kenya University, Thika, Kenya
Gitahi Njenga – School of Business and Economics, Mount Kigali University, Kigali, Rwanda
Email: sefbamu@gmail.com
Abstract: This study investigated the influence of work breakdown structure (WBS) on the performance of the Rurambi Rice Project in Bugesera District, Eastern Province of Rwanda. Using a descriptive mixed-methods research design, the study targeted 74 project staff, all of whom were included due to the small population size, with 70 questionnaires successfully returned (response rate: 94.6%). Primary data were collected through questionnaires and semi-structured interviews, while secondary data were obtained from document analysis. Instrument reliability was confirmed using Cronbach’s Alpha (WBS: α = 0.864), exceeding the acceptable 0.70 threshold. Data were analysed using SPSS Version 23.0 through descriptive statistics,Pearson Correlation, and simple linear regression. Findings revealed that WBS positively and significantly influenced project performance, explaining 82.1% of the variance in project performance outcomes (R² = 0.821; F = 311.704; p = 0.000). The regression equation was: Yₚₚ = 0.330 + 0.777(WBS) + 0.044. The study concludes that systematic work breakdown structure implementation particularly the decomposition of complex tasks into manageable components and the accurate identification of required resources is a critical determinant of agribusiness project performance in Rwanda. The study recommends that project managers adopt detailed WBS frameworks at the planning stage to minimise delays, improve resource clarity, and enhance project outcomes. Future research should explore WBS application in road construction and hydropower projects in Rwanda.
