Effect of Financial Management Practices on Performance of NGO Projects in Kenya: A Case of Horizon Initiative

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to examine the effect of financial management practices on performance of NGOs projects in Kenya, with a specific focus on Horizon Initiative. Its objectives were to establish the financial management practices applied in Horizon Initiative projects in Kenya, assess the Performance of Horizon Initiative projects in Kenya and establish the effect of financial management practices on performance of Horizon Initiative projects in Kenya. The Resource-Based View Theory and the Agency Theory were key in guiding this study. The study adopted a descriptive research design and targeted 45 employees of Horizon Initiative. The study established that Horizon Initiative used resource mobilization strategies, accounting information systems, budget control and financial reporting and analysis as financial management practices. The findings also showed that efficiency, effectiveness, beneficiary satisfaction and project sustainability were the measures of performance used by Horizon Initiative. Similarly, a significant and positive relationship was established between financial management practices and performance. The study concluded that through the financial management practices used, Horizon Initiative ensured that there were sufficient resources for carrying out its project activities and ensuring the same was prudently allocated devoid of losses or misappropriation. The study recommends that Horizon Initiative management should not only formulate financial management strategies, but also consistently monitor and evaluate their efficiency to prevent laxity in the implementation of the practices. The researcher recommends a similar study, this time involving organizations in other sectors such as the state-owned agencies. effect on performance.