Institutional factors influencing performance of maternal health projects in Kenya a case of Linda mama project in Isiolo county, Kenya

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to determine factors influencing the Performance of Linda Mama Project in Isiolo County, Kenya. The study sought to achieve the following objectives; to evaluate the extent to which staffing, financial resources, awareness of the project and availability of hospital infrastructure influence performance of Linda Mama Project in Isiolo County, Kenya. This study was grounded on resource dependency theory (RDT), stakeholders’ management theory, empowerment theory and optimal resource allocation theory. The study adopted a descriptive research design with the target population being 646 comprising of Antenatal nurses, Mothers attending clinics and Project managers in Isiolo County. Stratified simple random sampling techniques were used to select a sample of 118 respondents. Primary data was obtained using self-administered questionnaires while secondary data was obtained using data collection sheet. Data was analysed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS Version 22.0) which is the most recent version. Descriptive statistics such as frequencies, percentages, mean score and standard deviation were estimated for all the quantitative variables and information presented inform of tables. The qualitative data from the open-ended questions was analysed using conceptual content analysis and presented in prose. Inferential data analysis was done using multiple regression analysis. In testing the significance of the model, the coefficient of determination (R2) was used. F-statistic was also computed at 95% confidence level to test whether there is any significant relationship between procurement process and the various factors affecting it. The Policy makers are expected to use this study to evaluate the impact of the government interventions on the main components of maternal health care services with an aim of improving. It will assist the government in budgeting for maternal care, hence provide quality maternal care, and add to existing knowledge. The study found that education and Training influence performance of Linda Mama Project in Isiolo County, Kenya to a great extent. The study found that money for salaries /wages influence performance of Linda Mama Project in Isiolo County, Kenya to a great extent. The study concluded that staffing had the greatest influence on performance of Linda Mama Project in Isiolo County, Kenya followed by availability of hospital infrastructure, then financial resources while awareness of the project had the least influence on the performance of Linda Mama Project in Isiolo County, Kenya. The study established that awareness on risks and benefits influence performance of Linda Mama Project in Isiolo County, Kenya to a great extent The study recommends that county government should ensure that adequate staff for all hospitals to ensure there is success in Maternal projects. The study also recommends the need to improve financial and social support for women and families facing maternal health crises. The study also recommends that for proper success of the MCH projects in the country and more specifically in Isiolo County, infrastructure like hospital buildings, beds, equipment, water, electricity and other sanitation infrastructure have to be considered as priority needs.