Assessing Stakeholder Management in Project Completion: A Case Study of Kanyama Sanitation and Water Supply Project

This thesis investigates the pivotal role of stakeholder management in the successful completion of the Kanyama Sanitation and Water Supply Project in Lusaka, Zambia. Despite significant investments in water and sanitation initiatives, many projects fail to meet their objectives due to inadequate stakeholder engagement. This research aims to assess how effective stakeholder management can enhance project outcomes by identifying engagement strategies that foster community participation and address stakeholder concerns. Effective stakeholder management begins with the accurate identification and classification of stakeholders. The research emphasizes that understanding the interests, influence, and needs of various stakeholders is crucial for tailoring engagement strategies. Stakeholders, including community members, government agencies, NGOs, and project managers, must be actively involved throughout the project lifecycle to foster a sense of ownership and commitment to the project's goals. The study employs a qualitative methodology, utilizing interviews and surveys with various stakeholders involved in the Kanyama project, including community members, government officials, NGOs, and project managers. Through this approach, the research seeks to uncover the dynamics of stakeholder influence and engagement throughout the project lifecycle. The implications of this research extend beyond Kanyama, offering a framework for improving stakeholder management practices in similar contexts across Zambia and other developing regions facing water-related challenges. Ultimately, this study advocates for a comprehensive approach to stakeholder management that prioritizes community involvement throughout the project lifecycle, thereby ensuring more effective and sustainable outcomes in water and sanitation initiatives. Based on the conclusions drawn from this study, several recommendations can be made for future water and sanitation projects; and may include among others, (i). Enhance Training Programs: Implement capacity-building initiatives to equip community members with the skills necessary for managing water supply systems effectively. (ii). Develop Comprehensive Engagement Plans: Create detailed stakeholder engagement plans that outline strategies for communication, consultation, and collaboration throughout the project lifecycle. (iii). Allocate Resources for Engagement Activities: Ensure adequate funding is allocated for outreach efforts to engage stakeholders effectively, particularly in resource-constrained environments. (iv). Foster Collaborative Partnerships: Encourage partnerships between government agencies, NGOs, and community organizations to leverage resources and expertise for better project outcomes. The implications of this research, therefore, extend beyond Kanyama, suggesting that effective stakeholder management practices can be applied to similar contexts across Zambia and other developing regions facing water-related challenges.