Influence of Risk Transfer on Implementation of Kerra Road Construction Projects between 2019 and 2023 in Migori County, Kenya

Abstract

The implementation of Kenya Rural Roads Authority (KeRRA) construction projects faces high levels of risk, but these risks are often not adequately addressed, which is reflected in the low quality of work, as well as cost and time overruns. The purpose of this study was to determine the influence of risk transfer on the implementation of KeRRA road construction projects in Migori County, Kenya. Implementation was measured as a function of project completion within the set time frame and staying within budget. This study was anchored on project implementation theory, which provides a foundation for examining the influence of the variables under study. A concurrent triangulation research design was used, as it incorporates both qualitative and quantitative aspects of the research study. The target population for the study consisted of 92 contractors, 459 constituency roads committee (CRC) members, and 2 consultant engineers. Using a sampling size formula, a total of 39 contractors and 193 CRC members were selected through simple random sampling. Two (2) consultant engineers for Migori County were selected using purposive sampling. Primary data was obtained through self-administered questionnaires to contractors and CRC members, while Key Informant Interviews (KII) were conducted with the consultant engineers. The validity of the research instruments was ensured through piloting and expert evaluation. Inferential statistics, specifically Multiple Linear Regression, were applied to determine the influence of risk transfer strategies on the implementation of KeRRA road construction projects, by testing the hypotheses for the study. Statistical significance was assessed at p < 0.05. Qualitative data obtained from the interviews were analyzed using content analysis. The study found that risk transfer strategies are mostly employed during the construction of roads in Migori County (M = 3.77, SD = 0.86) and accounted for 70.0% of the variation in the implementation of the projects. The study concluded that improvement in risk transfer strategies leads to an increase in the implementation of KeRRA road construction projects in Migori County. The study recommends that, to ensure risk transfer is properly undertaken, a system of risk reporting and remedial actions should be activated to ensure a smooth and effective road project implementation process. Additionally, KeRRA should ensure that all manpower and machinery used in road construction are insured and properly certified in accordance with occupational safety and health standards and policies.