FACTORS INFLUENCING PROJECT IMPLEMENTATION IN THE DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC HEALTH IN KIAMBU COUNTY

Abstract

Project implementation also referred as project execution, is a phase in which the project vision and all the plans of the project become a reality and financial resources of the project are allocated. Many projects fail during implementation and often lack to meet the local people’s needs or the beneficiaries need. This study focused on factors influencing project implementation in the department of public health in Kiambu County. The department has nine programs but the study focused on three interventions in those programs. The study applied descriptive study design and targeted a population of about 230 members of staff; a sample size of 69 members of staffs who were directly involved in implementation were interviewed using questionnaires. Stratified random sampling method was applied, where the staffs were divided into strata’s and then a simple random carried out to obtain a representative sample size. The questionnaires obtained from the field were screened for completeness and entered into Statistical Package for Social Scientists (SPSS). Data was analyzed and presented inform of tables, charts graphs. In collection of data, the researcher maintained confidentiality of information obtained from the respondents in ensuring this researcher used principle of anonymity where no identifying information was required from the respondents. According to the study findings, Majority of the respondents believed that factors related to top management influenced project implementation to a large extent. Communication was identified as the critical role played by the top management during project implementation. Other roles included motivation, allocation of duties and offering directions to the project team. The study recommended that the top management should devote more time on the projects so as to keep the implementation process under control.