EFFECT OF PROJECT RESOURCE MANAGEMENT ON PERFORMANCE OF CONSTRUCTION PROJECTS IN RWANDA A CASE OF RUBAGABAGA HYDROPOWER PLANT CONSTRUCTION PROJECT

Abstract

The aim of the study was to analyze the effect of project resource management on the performance of construction projects in Rwanda. The specific objectives were to analyze the project resource management during Rubagabaga hydropower plant construction, to assess the level of Performance of Rubagabaga hydropower plant project and to assess the relationship between project resource management and performance of Rubagabaga hydropower plant. The researcher used descriptive research design and the data was collected from a sample size of 150 respondents. Data was collected through the questionnaire and interview and analyzed using SPSS v21 through the mean, standard deviation and regression analysis to test the hypotheses of the study. Findings revealed mean scores ranging from 4.01 to 4.57, indicating high satisfaction levels with various aspects of resource management, such as human resource allocation, materials resource allocation, risk management, financial resource management, and technology and equipment management. However, some weaknesses were identified, including lower scores in certain dimensions of risk management (mean = 3.52) and variability in stakeholder satisfaction (mean = 4.28, SD = 0.48). Additionally, project performance metrics assessed demonstrated positive perceptions, with mean scores ranging from 4.14 to 4.57. These metrics included quality of work, budget adherence, stakeholder satisfaction, and adaptability to change. Lastly, the study revealed significant positive correlations between resource management variables and project performance indicators, with coefficients ranging from 64.3% to 88.6%. Overall, the Rubagabaga hydropower plant exhibited strengths in project resource management, contributing to positive project outcomes. However, areas for improvement were identified, particularly in risk management, financial resource allocation, and stakeholder satisfaction. The study underscores the importance of effective resource allocation strategies in driving project success. To enhance project resource management and performance, the following actions are recommended; enhance risk identification and mitigation strategies to minimize project uncertainties. Improve budget allocation processes and financial monitoring mechanisms to optimize resource utilization, streamline materials procurement and distribution processes to minimize delays and enhance resource efficiency and continuously monitor stakeholder feedback and adjust resource management strategies to meet stakeholder expectations.