THE INFLUENCE OF STAKEHOLDER ENGAGEMENT ON THE SUSTAINABILITY OF THE KAIZEN PROJECT IN RWANDA

Abstract: This study examined the influence of stakeholder engagement on the sustainability of the Kaizen Project implemented by the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) under the Water and Sanitation Corporation (WASAC) in Rwanda. A mixed-method research design integrating quantitative and qualitative approaches was adopted. Data were collected from 178 respondents drawn from WASAC management, M&E officers, JICA experts, and community beneficiaries using questionnaires and interviews. Descriptive and inferential statistics were employed, and findings revealed a strong positive correlation (r = 0.684, p < 0.001) between stakeholder engagement and project sustainability. Qualitative findings underscored that transparent communication, participatory planning, and continuous capacity building foster ownership and accountability. The study concludes that effective stakeholder engagement enhances institutional performance, improves project relevance, and ensures long-term sustainability beyond donor support. It recommends that WASAC institutionalize participatory feedback mechanisms and integrate stakeholder collaboration into strategic planning frameworks to sustain Kaizen outcomes. Keywords: Stakeholder Engagement, Sustainability, Kaizen Project, JICA, WASAC, Monitoring and Evaluation, Rwanda. Title: THE INFLUENCE OF STAKEHOLDER ENGAGEMENT ON THE SUSTAINABILITY OF THE KAIZEN PROJECT IN RWANDA Author: Alphonsinah MBABAZI, Dr. Naomi Nduta NJOROGE International Journal of Social Science and Humanities Research ISSN 2348-3156 (Print), ISSN 2348-3164 (online) Vol. 13, Issue 4, October 2025 - December 2025 Page No: 152-157 Research Publish Journals Website: www.researchpublish.com Published Date: 18-October-2025 DOI: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.17386151 Paper Download Link (Source) https://www.researchpublish.com/papers/the-influence-of-stakeholder-engagement-on-the-sustainability-of-the-kaizen-project-in-rwanda