Factors influencing performance of solid waste management projects at Kenya Ports Authority

Abstract

The study investigated factors influencing performance of solid waste management projects at KPA. The study adopted a descriptive research design to collect quantitative data. The target population was drawn from KPA’s environment section, Pollution Control section, KPA security section and KPA solid waste external contractors. The population of the study consisted of project coordinators, project managers, project team members and project solid waste contractors. The target population for the study was 410 of which a sample size of 202 respondents was picked for the study through random sampling. Data was collected by use of questionnaires. To reinforce data reliability, validity and accuracy, a pilot study was conducted on 10 respondents who were not involved in the final sample to ascertain and detect any ambiguities; correct any poorly constructed questions and those that were irrelevant. After raw data was collected, it was edited to ensure that it was clean and accurate. It was then coded. Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS 24.0) was used to analyze data. Data analysis and interpretations was presented using descriptive statistics as well as inferential statistics, factor analysis and analysis of variance were used. Multilinear regression model was also used. The study findings established that there was a significant influence of stakeholders’ involvement, technological complexity, project manager’s skills and legal framework on performance of solid waste management at KPA. The study recommended that KPA should establish better disposal of ship solid waste and extend the port waste management plan to all stake holders, they should train their stakeholders on new technologies of managing solid waste. KPA also needs to ensure that all stakeholders at the port abide by environmental legal laws governing solid waste management and lastly KPA should have a clear communication plan that will help distribute accurate information on solid waste management to various stakeholders.