Factors influencing implementation of waste management project in urban centres in Kenya: A case of Bungoma south sub county

Abstract

This research examined the factors influencing the implementation of waste management project in urban centres with reference to operations within the Bungoma South Sub County. The purpose of the study was to investigate the factors influencing the implementation of waste management project in urban centres a case of the Bungoma South Sub County. The specific objectives of the study were; to establish the influence of public private partnership on implementation of waste management project in Bungoma South Sub County; to examine the influence of staff training on implementation of waste management project in Bungoma South Sub County; to investigate the influence of organizational culture on implementation of waste management project in Bungoma South Sub County and to establish the influence of allocation of budgetary resources on implementation of waste management project in Bungoma South Sub County. Descriptive survey research design was deemed most appropriate for this study as it aided in the determination of the current state of affairs in BSSC. The target population for this study comprised of employees at the top, middle, and lower levels in the Department of Environment, in BSSC. A sample size of 80 respondents, representing about half of the target population was considered adequate. This study adopted stratified random sampling technique to ensure representatives across heterogeneous population groups, which was classified according to level of management. Questionnaires were used as the research instrument. Data was analyzed both qualitatively and quantitatively using SPSS. The findings revealed that, majority of the respondents were not aware of PPPSs and policies in place. Majority of the respondents agreed and observed that opportunities for training and development were available. Most respondents agreed to the availability of a clearly defined organizational direction and purpose. Moreover, the budgetary allocations were not effectively and efficiently utilized. Nevertheless, majority of the staff felt fairly motivated to work for the institution. Recommendations; policies should be improved and, enacted and more awareness created that support PPPs. Gaps in the management of training and development could be addressed through a revision of the policy on training by aligning the same to the strategic direction of the organization while also accommodating the career development needs of the diversity of employees. Transformation of the retrogressive organizational culture requires first a reformation in leadership. Recognizing that a new regime is in place, an audit of corporate governance could be the first step in addressing employees' empowerment towards implementation of waste management project. The existing policy on budgetary resources allocation should be improved and to accommodate transparency and effective utilization. Motivation is one of the most important keys to success. The government should motivate stakeholders and staff as it is likely to influence implementation of waste management project. Further research could be carried out on challenges facing the public private partnerships in implementing waste management project.