Organizational Factors Influencing Performance of M&e System, a Case of Green Zones Development Support Project of Kenya Forest Service

Abstract

Program actors undoubtedly value an efficient M&E framework for measuring project performance. M&E systems benefis organizations in enhancing productivity and accountability. Green Zones Development Support Project (GZDSP) aim to support various environmental protection strategies with the support of diverse pool of stakeholders. The multiscalar nature of the project therefore calls for proper coordination and planning among project implementing parties. The purpose of this research was to examine the factors within GZDSP's organizational structure that affect the efficiency of M&E processes. Because there is so little existing research on the effectiveness of the program's M&E mechanisms, this investigation was required. The objectives were to determine how much financial resources, stakeholder involvement, leadership style, and the availability of human resources affected the efficiency of the M&E systems used by the Green Zones Development Support Project. The approach was guided by a descriptive research model, and census and purposive sampling were used to recruit study participants. Senior managers, M&E specialists, and consultants all worked in the departments targeted. Research was conducted using questionnaires and personal interviews. In order to establish the validity and reliability of the research instruments, a pilot study with 15 replies was undertaken, yielding a Cronbach Alpha score of 0.82. Out of the total population of 141, a random sample of 65 workers was selected from the main office and 15 county offices to fill out the semi-structured questionnaire used to gather the data. Both parametric and non-parametric tests were used to describe and interpret the data. Information was analyzed using SPSS V242, a statistical program designed specifically for social scientists. Research revealed that several of the GZDSP program implementers have advanced degrees and extensive experience with M&E procedures. Specifically, the regression analysis revealed that the efficiency of M&E systems was positively influenced by financial availability (0.239; 0.000) and human resource capacity (0.23; 0.000), but negatively influenced by stakeholder involvement (0.149; 0.004) and leadership variables (0.415; 0.000). Sixty-six percent of respondents also strongly disputed that the GZDSP budget included M&E related activities, and 93 percent acknowledged that the GZDSP administration did not promote community engagement in stakeholder M&E. Findings from the research urged planners of GZDSP initiatives to take monitoring and evaluation efforts and community buy-in into account during program budgeting.