IMES SYSTEM APPRAISAL FRAMEWORK AND PERFORMANCE OF ROAD PROJECT IN KENYA
IMES SYSTEM APPRAISAL FRAMEWORK AND PERFORMANCE OF ROAD PROJECT IN KENYA
Olympia Muhanga Musonye - PhD Student, Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology, Kenya
Dr. Peter Ngatia - Lecturer, Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology, Kenya
Prof. Patrick Karanja Ngugi - Lecturer, Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology, Kenya
ABSTRACT
Road projects in Kenya have been characterized by substandard quality, cost overruns, delays, and weak stakeholder coordination, largely attributed to inefficiencies in project management systems. System appraisal framework (IMES) have been adopted to enhance project performance; however, limited empirical attention has been given to specific components such as the system appraisal framework. This study therefore examined the relationship between IMES System Appraisal Framework and the performance of road projects in Kenya, while also assessing the moderating effect of project risks on this relationship. The study focused on road construction projects implemented by national government road agencies, namely KeNHA, KeRRA, and KURA, between 2015 and 2022. The unit of analysis was the road projects, while project managers formed the unit of observation. A sample size of 126 respondents was determined using Fisher’s formula, and data were collected using semi-structured questionnaires. A pilot study was conducted to ensure reliability and validity of the instruments. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics, including regression and moderated regression analysis, with the aid of SPSS. The findings revealed that the IMES System Appraisal Framework has a positive and statistically significant influence on the performance of road projects in Kenya. Additionally, project risks were found to have a significant moderating effect on this relationship, indicating that the effectiveness of system appraisal frameworks varies depending on the level and management of project risks. The study concludes that strengthening system appraisal mechanisms within IMES enhances project performance outcomes. It is therefore recommended that road project implementing agencies institutionalize robust appraisal frameworks that incorporate continuous performance evaluation and integrate proactive risk management strategies to improve efficiency, accountability, and overall project success.
