Influence of Monitoring and Evaluation on Performance of Construction Projects: a Case of Mombasa –nairobi Pipeline Construction Project

Abstract

Monitoring and evaluation (M&E) has become an increasingly important tool within the global efforts in achieving environmental, economic and social sustainability. The purpose of this study is to determine influence of monitoring and evaluation on project performance in State Corporation in Kenya focusing on Mombasa- Nairobi Pipeline construction project. The objectives of the study were to determine the influence of monitoring and evaluation feedback on performance of Mombasa -Nairobi Pipeline construction project, to examine the extent to which training and development on monitoring and evaluation influence performance of Mombasa- Nairobi Pipeline construction project, to establish the influence of communication in monitoring and evaluation on performance of Mombasa-Nairobi Pipeline construction project and to assess the influence of resource allocation on monitoring and evaluation on performance of Mombasa- Nairobi Pipeline construction project. The study adopted descriptive research design. The target population used for the study was 179 staff working in Kenya Pipeline Construction Projects. The study adopted a sample size of 124 using Slovin‟s formula. The primary data for this study was collected using the questionnaires and complemented by desk research hence ensuring that detailed and relevant information on the subject of study is collected. Qualitative data was analysed through content analysis and presented in prose form. Quantitative data was presented using tables for ease of understanding and analysis. Descriptive statistics- mean and standard deviation was used to determine the extent to which monitoring and evaluation influence performance of pipeline construction project. Inferential statistics-correlation and regression were done to determine the influence of monitoring and evaluation on performance of pipeline construction project. Pearson‟s correlation analysis was carried out to examine the association between the variables. From the findings, it was revealed that due to monitoring and evaluation feedback there is enhanced accountability minimizing project financial mismanagement, enhanced project decision making and the project experience transparency. Regression results revealed that monitoring and evaluation feedback, training and development in monitoring and evaluation, monitoring and evaluation communication and resource allocation on monitoring and evaluation has significance and positive influence on project performance. The study recommends that the company should enhance effective feedback in order to improve development policies, programs and practices by providing policymakers with the relevant evaluation information to assist in making informed decisions. Monitoring and Evaluation has become a necessary component of any development program or project. The study recommends that the organizations should support adequate training of field staff involved in monitoring and evaluation through offer of requisite skills and knowledge on Monitoring and Evaluation and project performance.