The Power of Stakeholder Involvement in National Government Constituency Development-funded Education Projects in Ugunja Constituency, Kenya

Sharon Achieng Oduor, Benard Lango & Ruth Njeri Karuu
The Catholic University of Eastern Africa
Email: sharonschool26@gmail.com

Abstract: The National Government Constituency Development Fund (NG-CDF), established under the 2015 Act, aims to enhance equitable resource distribution and grassroots development, particularly in education. However, project implementation has faced persistent challenges, including delays, cost overruns, and weak management practices. This study examined the influence of project management practices on the implementation of NG-CDF-funded education projects in Ugunja Constituency, Siaya County. The analysis focused on resource availability, contractor competence, stakeholder involvement, and government oversight, drawing on Stakeholder Theory and the Theory of Constraints. A descriptive research design combining qualitative and quantitative approaches was adopted. From a target population of 162 stakeholders, a stratified random sample of 81 respondents was surveyed using structured questionnaires and interviews. Data were analysed through descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation, regression, and thematic analysis. Findings revealed that resource availability, contractor competence, and stakeholder involvement significantly enhanced project implementation, whereas government oversight showed no statistically significant effect. The study concludes that successful education projects rely on sound resource allocation, competent contractors, and active stakeholder participation. It recommends adopting a standardised project management framework, strengthening monitoring and evaluation systems, and enhancing stakeholder engagement to improve accountability, transparency, and educational outcomes.