INFLUENCE OF PROJECT INITIATION MANAGEMENT ON THE PERFORMANCE OF WATER, SANITATION AND HYGIENE PROJECTS IN RWANDA: A CASE OF BUSANZA NEIGHBORHOOD SANITATION PROJECT

Abstract

This study investigates the influence of project initiation management on the performance of Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) projects in Rwanda, specifically focusing on the Busanza Neighborhood Sanitation Project. The research highlights the critical components of project initiation management, including scoping, design, and feasibility assessments, and how these elements impact key performance indicators such as on-time completion, product quality, and adherence to budget constraints. The study employed a descriptive survey that incorporated both qualitative and quantitative methodologies. The intended population of the study consisted of 1260 representatives in the Busanza region. An initial sample size of 304 was calculated using Slovin's formula. Systematic stratified random sampling methods were used. In this investigation, both primary and secondary data were utilized. Data collection was conducted using a questionnaire as the primary method, while secondary data sources including project reports, academic journals, government publications, and industry reports.  A thematic analysis was conducted on qualitative data obtained from interviews and open-ended survey responses. The data underwent coding to classify the responses and ascertain relevant concepts or ideas. This procedure facilitates the organization of qualitative data for further analysis. Statistical analysis was conducted on quantitative data obtained from closed-ended survey questions, utilizing descriptive statistics including frequencies, percentages, means, and standard deviations. To strengthen the validity of the results, qualitative and quantitative data were triangulated to support the findings. The interpretative analysis of the data was conducted in consideration of the research objectives and theoretical framework. The findings reveal distinct influences of various project management phases on overall project performance. Project Monitoring Management has the most substantial positive effect, with a coefficient of 0.877 (Beta = 1.014, p = 0.000), indicating its critical role in enhancing project outcomes. These results emphasize the importance of thorough planning and stakeholder engagement in the initiation phase to ensure successful implementation and sustainability of WASH projects. The study concludes with suggestions for further research to explore long-term impacts and the role of technology in improving project management practices in the WASH sector.