Contract management practices and success of road construction projects in Uganda:

Abstract

This study was conducted to establish the relationship between contract management practices and success of road construction projects in Uganda, using a case study of Lukuli road project in Makindye Division, Kampala Uganda. Three objectives were examined, which included examining the relationship between; 1) contractor monitoring; 2) risk management; and 3) evaluation and success of Lukuli road construction. The study employed a case study design together with a descriptive correlational and a cross sectional survey design. Data was collected from a sample of 115 stakeholders of Lukuli road construction, who include the employees and officials of road construction at Makindye Division, contractors’ managers, local government leaders and Local Council leaders of the communities around the road. Purposive and convenient sampling techniques were used to select respondents. Data collection was done using a researcher made questionnaire and an interview guide. Data analysis was done using frequency counts, percentages, means and standard deviations at a descriptive level. At the inferential level, the Pearson’s Linear Correlation Coefficient was used. The findings revealed that Lukuli road construction was fairly successful (average mean=3.03, SD = 0.324), Contractor monitoring (average mean=3.26; SD=0.416), risk management (average mean = 3.20; SD=0.330) and evaluation (average mean=3.33; SD=0.280) were all fairly effective. Contractor monitoring (r-value = 0.255, sig. = 0.006) and risk management (r-value = 0.294, sig. = 0.001) were found to be positively and significantly correlated with Lukuli road construction success. On the other hand, evaluation was found to be negatively but insignificantly correlated with road construction success (r-value = -0.029, sig. = 0.758). The researcher concluded that contractor monitoring and risk management are important in enhancing road construction success of Lukuli project, but evaluation is not important, so it should not be given much focus. The researcher recommended that the administration of Makindye Division should improve contractor monitoring by focusing on monthly inspections, maintaining a record book, time management and sticking to approved BOQs. The administration should also try to improve risk management by ensuring that they identify the possible risks early before construction works begin, regular supply of construction materials and equipment, timely response to risks identified during construction, consideration of risks arising from weather changes and ensuring that funds are released in time.