Perceived Factors Influencing Project Implementation in Arid and Semi-arid Areas in Uganda: a Case of Integrated Water Management and Development in Arua District, Uganda

Abstract

Existing records indicate that the Integrated Water Management and Development (IWMD) Project of Uganda continues to face a number of challenges that hamper its efforts to deliver on its mandate. This study investigated perceived factors influencing project implementation in arid and semi-arid areas in Uganda: a case of integrated water management and development in Arua District. Specific objectives included influence of availability of resources, community involvement, support structure, and the influence of political environment on project implementation in integrated water management and development in Arua District. Survey research design was used where the target population included project management committee members, NGOs and CBOs management staff working in the area, and government ministry officials. Stratified technique was applied to determine a sample size of 127. Primary data was collected using a structured questionnaire which allowed collection of both quantitative and qualitative data. The mean and standard deviation were used to measure statistical data using SPSS version 23.0 and Excel worksheets. The findings were documented using tables and charts. Thematic technique was used to process qualitative data based on the research objectives and presented using narratives. The study findings showed that availability of resources means a lot when it comes to effective execution of integrated water projects. Lack of sufficient resources often leads to lagging behind of completion of projects, poor quality of the projects, and varying of projects scope. Also, community involvement, support structure, and political environment influenced implementation of integrated water projects. Public involvement and strong support infrastructure as well as stable political environment ensured smooth running of the water projects by providing the right forum for effective execution of the projects. The study recommended the need for all key stakeholders in management of integrated water resources in Arua district to put in concerted efforts to create a favourable environment for effective implementation of the projects. This included resource mobilization, enhanced community participation, strong support structures, and the right political environment to allow peaceful management as well as execution of integrated water programs in Arua district in Uganda.