DECISION MAKING AND SUSTAINABILITY OF WORLD VISION COMMUNITY WATER PROJECTS IN HOMABAY COUNTY, KENYA

Juliet Akeyo Odhiambo, Dr. Benard Lango

Abstract


Abstract

Access to clean water is a fundamental human right and a crucial component of sustainable development. Community participation has been recognized as a key factor in achieving sustainable development goals, as it fosters active participation, local ownership, and accountability. The general objective of this study was to assess the influence of decision making on sustainability of community water projects implemented by World Vision in Homabay County. This research was based on the stakeholder theory. A descriptive research design was adopted. The target population was 208 respondents consisting of project managers, project committee members and local area chiefs. Primary data was collected through structured questionnaires and was analyzed descriptively by use of means and standard deviation and inferentially by use of correlation and regression analyses. The results revealed that decision-making (Beta = 0.294, p = 0.000) significantly influenced the projects' sustainability. The study concluded that the active involvement of community members in decision making in various aspects of the project, was vital for the long-term success and sustainability of such initiatives. Recommendations highlighted the necessity to prioritize transparency in decision-making and to ensure projects’ sustainability. Future research suggestions encompass exploring regional variabilities, integrating technology and innovation into water projects, and conducting longitudinal studies to comprehend evolving dynamics over time.

 

Keywords; decision making, Project sustainability, community water projects, Homabay county, community projects.

 


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