Assessing The Effectiveness of Participatory Techniques on Project Cycle Management: A Comparative Study of Selected Community Based Organizations (CBOs) In Mlolongo Sub-County, Machakos County, Kenya.

Abstract

The study sought to analyze the effectiveness of participatory techniques in the project management cycle, in two selected CBOs in Mlolongo Township, Machakos County, with the following objectives; assess the types of participatory techniques used in the selected CBOs, analyze the effectiveness of participatory techniques in terms of project efficiency at selected CBOs in Mlolongo Township, examine the effectiveness of participatory techniques in terms of project impact and sustainability at selected CBOs in Mlolongo Township, and suggest recommendations from the research findings for improving participatory techniques. The study targeted two CBOs in Mlolongo Township. It employed a descriptive research design, utilizing stratified random sampling technique to sample 62 respondents from the target population. The study collected data using structured questionnaire, key informant interviews and focus group discussions to obtain relevant data. Quantitative data was collected and analyzed using SPSS v.21 through descriptive and inferential statistics and findings presented in tables, charts and graphs. Qualitative data was analyzed thematically by use of narratives. The findings obtained indicated that participatory techniques were effective in terms of reflecting local knowledge and priorities of the beneficiaries in the CBO’s. The techniques were very effective in terms of increased ownership and motivation to beneficiaries. However, participatory techniques in Mlolongo were not very effective in terms of accountability. The study recommended that there was need to train the project staff on community engagement and public consultation as well as conduct regular consultative meeting for all stakeholders so as to promote accountability.