Project Execution and Performance of Projects at the Telkom Kenya

Abstract

Project performance in the telecommunication sector in Kenya faces significant challenges due to frequent delays, budget overruns, and inadequate resource management. As a result, many telecom projects fail to meet their intended goals, affecting service delivery and industry growth. The purpose of the study was to investigate the effect of project execution on project performance within the telecommunication sector in Kenya, focusing on Telkom Kenya as a case study. The specific objectives were establishing the effect of project funding, stakeholder involvement, and project strategy on project performance in the telecommunication sector in Kenya. The study anchor theory was stakeholder theory supplemented by participative leadership theory and theory of constraints. The study adopted a correlational research design. The target population for the study was 1111 employees of Telkom Kenya where a sample size of 294 employees was computed using Slovin’s formula. The study collected primary data using a structured questionnaire. The study utilized SPSS version 29 to analyze data where both descriptive and inferential statistics were employed. On aggregate, majority of the employees agreed that project strategy is essential for project performance in the telecommunication sector as supported by aggregate mean response of 4.33 with standard deviation of 0.79 followed by stakeholder involvement (aggregate mean of 4.09 and standard deviation of 0.88) and finally project funding with aggregate mean response of 4.06 and standard deviation of 0.86. There was a strong positive and significant correlation between stakeholder involvement (r=.590, p<0.05), project funding(r=.576, p<0.05), and project strategy (r=.545, p<0.05) with project performance. Similarly, regression coefficient results showed that stakeholder involvement, project funding and project strategy have a positive significant influence on performance of telecommunication projects. Thus, the study concluded that project funding, stakeholder involvement and project strategy have a significant effect on the project performance. When securing project funding, it is crucial to identify the most appropriate funding sources, whether through grants, loans, venture capital, or crowdfunding, and ensure that project proposal aligns with their priorities. For effective project strategies, project managers should emphasize clear communication, defined goals, and continuous monitoring establish measurable milestones and regularly assess progress through transparent reporting. There is need to involve all key stakeholders like customers, regulatory bodies, partners, and internal teams early and consistently for smooth operations and project success. Regularly engage these stakeholders through meetings, progress updates, and feedback loops to manage expectations and address concerns.