Role of logical framework adoption on project success in non -Governmental organizations in Kenya : A case of relief Non -Governmental organizations in Nairobi county.

Abstract

In order for projects to be successful, certain methodologies and tools are incorporated. One of these tools recommended by majority of donors is the Logical Framework. The Logical Framework is a tool that is used to facilitate project planning, implementation and management. It originated from the United States Agency of International Development in late 1960’s. The agency developed it as a strategy to bolster the quality of planning and evaluation of its projects. However despite the recommendation by a majority of donors to adopt Logical Framework in project planning, implementation and management, available information shows that there are low levels of adoption of this tool and this leads to poor project implementation, lack of learning and knowledge sharing, lack of accountability, absence of stakeholder involvement, and lack of donor trust. The aim of this study was to find out the role of Logical framework adoption on project success in Non-Governmental Organizations in Nairobi, Kenya, a case of relief NGOs within Nairobi County. Relief NGOs are those NGOs whose activities revolve around provision of food, shelter, water, sanitation and medical care. The objectives of this study were to examine the effect of viable indicators on project success in relief NGOs, to determine the effect of communication on project success in relief NGOs, to investigate the effect of participation of stakeholders on project success in relief NGOs, and to assess the effect of setting targets on project success in relief NGOs. The study population was the heads of monitoring and evaluation within the selected relief NGOs. A sample of 40 relief NGOs in Nairobi County were selected to participate in the study. The study sample was selected using systematic sampling technique. Primary data that relate to the independent and dependent variables was collected using questionnaires. Descriptive statistics was used to explain the relationships of these sub variables of the independent variable and project success, which was the dependent variable. This study was intended to be of benefit to NGOs and the groups that work with NGOs. It was also intended to be beneficial to other researchers who are aspiring to carry out research in this field. Out of the 40 relief NGOs that were selected to participate in the study, 32 responded by filling and returning the questionnaires. The findings of this study were presented in form of tables and charts. The findings indicated that Logical Framework adoption project success. This was so because Logical framework was found to promote selection of viable indicators including input, activity and output indicators. It was also found to promote communication of project related information, stakeholder participation, and setting targets. At the same time, it was concluded that selection of viable indicators, communication of project related information, stakeholder participation and setting targets promote project success. One of the major recommendations was that project officers as well as other stakeholders involved in the preparation of the logical framework should ensure that the logical framework brings the major aspects of a proposed project into the limelight in order to promote ownership and sustainability of projects.