Monitoring Planning and Implementation of Donor Funded Agricultural Projects in Kenya

Abstract

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship between monitoring planning and implementation of donor funded agricultural projects in Kenya. The study also sought to establish the moderating effect of project environment on the relationship between monitoring planning and implementation of donor funded agricultural projects in Kenya. In the realm of donor-funded agricultural projects in Kenya, effective monitoring planning is integral to successful project implementation. Activities such as resource acquisition, organization of materials, and training farm operators depend on a well-structured plan. The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN, 2014) emphasizes the need for a seamless integration of techniques, procedures, people, and systems rooted in thoughtful planning. Methodology: This study employed a descriptive research design utilizing questionnaires as the primary data collection method, emphasizing a positivism philosophy grounded in quantifiable observations and statistical analysis. The target population encompassed various roles within donor-funded agricultural projects, totaling 383 individuals, with a sample size of 196 determined through simple random sampling. Reliability was assessed through a pilot test, utilizing Cronbach's Alpha, and statistical techniques were employed for data analysis, including descriptive statistics, multiple regression analysis, and statistical tests such as ANOVA. The study tested hypothesis related to the influence of monitoring planning on project implementation, as well as the moderating effect of the project environment. Findings: The study's statistical analyses reject the hypothesis (H01) that monitoring planning does not significantly influence the implementation of donor-funded agricultural projects in Kenya (F (1, 155) = 70.985, p < 0.001). Instead, it establishes a positive and substantial relationship between monitoring planning and project implementation, with monitoring planning explaining 31.4% of the variability in project outcomes (R2 = 0.314, p < 0.001). Additionally, the second hypothesis (H02) suggesting no significant moderating effect of project environment on the relationship between monitoring planning and project implementation is as well rejected (F(2, 154) = 64.066, p < 0.001), emphasizing the statistically significant influence of project environment dynamics on the effectiveness of monitoring planning strategies Unique contribution to theory, practice and policy: Give that the study findings establishes a positive and substantial relationship between monitoring planning, project environment and project implementation, it is recommended that project managers and stakeholders actively recognize and account for the influence of project environment dynamics on monitoring planning. This entails conducting comprehensive assessments to tailor monitoring plans to specific project contexts, fostering adaptability and responsiveness to varying conditions. By collectively defining and adhering to best practices, the sector can enhance its ability to navigate diverse project environments effectively, ultimately contributing to the success of donor-funded agricultural projects in Kenya.