Influence of Stakeholders Participation on the Performance of Agriculture Projects in Rwanda: A Case of PSDAG Project at Sarura Commodities Ltd

Abstract

Participation of stakeholders has been respected as a decisive component of programming since 1970s. The study was undertaken to establish how stake holder’s participation influences the performance of agricultural projects SARURA Commodities Ltd. The research was guided by three objectives; to establish the influence of stakeholder participation in project identification on the performance of agricultural project in Sarura Commodities Ltd; determine the influence of stakeholder participation in project execution on performance of agricultural project in Sarura Commodities Ltd; and, examine the influence of stakeholder participation in project funding on performance of agricultural project in Sarura Commodities Ltd. This study employs a descriptive survey research design, targeting project stakeholders, including donors, the implementing agency, and beneficiaries (n=115). A census method is used for sample selection. Data is collected through questionnaires, with a focus on demographic information and project-related inquiries. Thematic and descriptive analyses are applied for qualitative and quantitative data, respectively. Ethical considerations encompass informed consent, participant rights, and anonymity preservation. The study assessed the impact of project identification, execution, and funding on the performance of agricultural projects in Sarura Commodities Ltd, Rwanda. Results indicate high agreement among respondents on project identification (Mean=4.4298), execution (Mean=4.530), and funding (Mean=4.710). Correlation analysis reveals a positive and significant (ranging from 0.721 to 0.860) relationship between stakeholder participation and project outcomes. Regression models demonstrate that stakeholder participation significantly influences timely completion (R²=89.0%), completion within budget (R²=72.1%), and quality specification (R²=86.0%). These findings highlight the crucial role of effective project management and stakeholder engagement in enhancing the success of agricultural projects in the context of Sarura Commodities Ltd. In conclusion, the study reveals that project identification, execution, and funding significantly impact the performance of agricultural projects in Sarura Commodities Ltd, Rwanda. The high mean scores indicate the substantial influence of each factor. Recommendations include enhancing stakeholder skills in funding, promoting flexible working systems for donor collaboration, and dispelling misconceptions about the time and cost associated with project funding. These measures can optimize project outcomes and stakeholder engagement in agricultural initiatives. Keywords: Stakeholders Participation, Performance of Agriculture Projects, PSDAG Project, Sarura Commodities Ltd, Rwanda