Influence of monitoring and evaluation practices on performance of church projects; a case of the Anglican Church of Kenya, Eldoret diocese

Abstract

Projects initiated by churches have the main goal of changing positively the socio-political and economic status of the beneficiaries of a given region. Lack of oversight expertise among several projects has resulted to performance-related problems. Although several churches in Kenya have formulated policies defining how projects are monitored and evaluated there are still cases of the poor performance of these projects. The aim of the study was to establish the influence of monitoring and evaluation practices on performance of church projects in Anglican Church of Kenya, Eldoret Diocese. The study was guided by the following research objectives: To establish how Data management systems influences performance of church projects in Anglican Church of Kenya, to assess how resource budgeting influencing performance of church projects in Anglican Church of Kenya, to evaluate how assessments of activities influences performance of church projects in Anglican Church of Kenya, and to establish how reporting systems influences performance of church projects in Anglican Church of Kenya. The study was guided by Competence motivation theory which was compounded by Robert White in 1987. The study employed descriptive survey research design. The sample size of the study was 204 respondents from the various unit of study obtained using Yamane formula. The study employed a purposive sampling technique (Non-probability) for members of the monitoring and evaluation department staff and the project coordinators due to their knowledge regarding church projects developments and oversights. The stratified simple random sampling technique (probability) was used for the CCMP staff and beneficiaries. The study did use quantitative and qualitative data which was obtained from structured questionnaires and interview schedules. Quantitative data was analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics while qualitative data was analyzed logically using content analysis. Final results were presented inform of logical statements and frequency distribution tables. The findings of the study were: The project committees in churches are fully engaged with the development of Data management systems but lack enough knowledge for designing the Data management systems. The types of performance controls, resource audits and resource plans are effective in enhancing performance of the church projects. The number of inspections and visits are suitable in enhancing project performance and committee members were found to have the necessary skills and knowledge to make assessments of activities. The written reports is highly shared to the church faithful’s and the number of reports, type of audiences and timing of reports are important in enhancing performance of the church projects. The study findings is hoped to be beneficial to foundation of knowledge and policy making functions in faith based organizations.