PROJECT QUALITY MANAGEMENT PRACTICES AND PROJECT PERFORMANCE OF ROAD PROJECTS IN ELGEYO MARAKWET COUNTY, KENYA

Abstract: Road projects undertaken by county governments in Kenya frequently encounter considerable delays, with many projects being completed two to five years beyond their original timelines, and some even facing indefinite suspension. The uncertainty regarding the completion of specific projects is largely attributed to inadequate workmanship, which compromises the overall quality of the projects. This situation leads to both delays and significant budget overruns. The present study intended to investigate the influence of quality management practices on the performance of road projects in Elgeyo Marakwet County. In particular, the research aimed to evaluate the effects of various quality management practices, such as quality auditing, quality training, inspection, and continuous improvement, on the performance of road projects in the area. Anchored in total quality management theory and six sigma theory, this mixed-method study focused on a population of 115 respondents. A census approach was employed. Data was gathered through both quantitative and qualitative methods, utilizing questionnaires, interview and observation guides. This approach was chosen to facilitate a comprehensive exploration of the topic. The data collected was analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistical methods. Statistical Package for Social Scientists. Findings revealed that quality auditing and quality training had significant positive impacts on project performance. Specifically, auditing ensured compliance with standards, early defect detection, and improved quality (r = 0.281, β = 0.860), while training enhanced staff competence and execution efficiency (r = 0.417, β = 1.213). However, inspection and continuous improvement showed significant but negative relationships with performance, suggesting that poor implementation of inspections (r = -0.095, β = -0.339) and mismanaged continuous improvement efforts (r = -0.073, β = -1.201) could disrupt project flow and outcomes. The study concluded that quality auditing and training are essential to project success, while inspection and continuous improvement must be carefully planned and executed. It recommends structured auditing systems, targeted training, systematic inspection routines, and managed improvement strategies to enhance performance. For further studies, it is suggested that research should focus on the broader influence of total quality management (TQM) practices on the management and sustainability of construction projects in Kenya, to offer a more holistic view of quality practices across different project types and sectors. Keywords: Quality Auditing, Quality training, Inspection, Continuous improvement and performance of road projects. Title: PROJECT QUALITY MANAGEMENT PRACTICES AND PROJECT PERFORMANCE OF ROAD PROJECTS IN ELGEYO MARAKWET COUNTY, KENYA Author: Nyongesa, Mulongo, Brigid, Dr. Julius Miroga. International Journal of Recent Research in Commerce Economics and Management (IJRRCEM) ISSN 2349-7807 Vol. 12, Issue 2, April 2025 - June 2025 Page No: 71-93 Paper Publications Website: www.paperpublications.org Published Date: 08-May-2025 DOI: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.15366825 Paper Download Link (Source) https://www.paperpublications.org/upload/book/PROJECT%20QUALITY%20MANAGEMENT%20PRACTICES-08052025-4.pdf