Public Participation Approaches and Performance of Community Empowerment Projects: A Case of Kiambu County, Kenya
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Date
2025-11
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Publisher
Kenyatta University
Abstract
Public participation has increasingly been recognized as a fundamental component in the successful implementation of community empowerment projects. However, despite its acknowledged importance, there remains a significant gap in understanding the specific effects of various public participation approaches on project performance. Community projects often suffer from poor execution and lack of sustainability, largely due to insufficient engagement of stakeholders, ineffective communication strategies, and inadequate capacity building efforts. This study aimed to determine the effect of public participation approaches on the performance of community empowerment projects in Kiambu County, Kenya. The study objectives were; effect of stakeholder involvement on the performance of community empowerment projects, effect of communication on the performance of community empowerment projects, effect of capacity building on the performance of community empowerment projects in Kiambu County, Kenya. The study was guided by Stakeholder Theory and Resource Mobilization Theory. The study employed a descriptive research design. The study targeted 150 community empowerment projects currently underway in Kiambu County, involving 3,000 stakeholders. The Yamane formula was utilized in calculating sample size. A sample size of 97 respondents was achieved. Simple random sampling technique was utilized in selecting respondents. Data collection was done through semi-structured questionnaires. Pilot study was done to enhance validity and reliability of research instrument. Data collected was coded, analyzed, and presented through tables and charts. The research will uphold ethical considartion procedures where research authorizations were acquired from Graduate school-Kenyatta University and NACOSTI research license. The findings highlight that engaging stakeholders, government agencies, NGOs, and community members enhances project sustainability. Effective communication ensures stakeholders understand goals and stay engaged. Training and skill development equip community members to manage projects and foster innovation. Stakeholder involvement leverages external expertise, resources, and support, contributing to long-term success. Regular consultations and feedback mechanisms enable adaptive management, addressing challenges and aligning with community needs. Empowering communities through ongoing education and training sustains project impact. The study recommends that the government allocate resources to facilitate stakeholder engagement and implement participatory frameworks effectively. Stakeholders should collaborate with local communities to provide technical support, financial resources, and capacity-building. Promoting inclusive decision-making fosters ownership and long-term commitment, ultimately strengthening community development initiatives.
Description
A Research Project Submitted To The School Of Law, Arts And Social Sciences In Partial Fulfillment Of The Requirements For The Award Of The Degree Of Master Of Public Policy And Administration Of Kenyatta University. November, 2025
Supervisor
Edna Moi