INFLUENCE OF TENDERING PROCESSES ON THE PERFORMANCE OF NATIONAL GOVERNMENT CONSTITUENCY DEVELOPMENT FUND PROJECTS A CASE STUDY OF BOMET EAST CONSTITUENCY, BOMET COUNTY, KENYA

Abstract

Purpose: The purpose of the study was to examine the influence of tendering processes on the performance of National Government constituency development fund projects.Methodology:  The study adopted a case study design to achieve in-depth understanding of the constituency while drawing inference on similar situations in other constituencies in Kenya. The study targeted 359 projects of various types across the constituency. However, for efficiency and accessibility, a sample of 60 projects were selected using stratified random sampling where the different categories of projects form the strata from which samples were selected. The study employed three tools to collect data; questionnaire, interviews and record analysis review. These tools were appropriate due to the nature of data which ranged from opinions, structured data and reports on project implementation. Interviews were conducted with sub-county based officers to get in- depth information on the challenges faced by NG-CDF projects particularly those that relate to procurement. The study adopted descriptive statistics to analyze data which is presented by use of bar graphs, pie charts and tables.Findings: The study established that, there is indeed a relationship between tendering processes and project performance; 47% of the projects under study that were initiated during period delayed due to factors associated with tendering processes; Similarly, 49% of the projects studied experienced cost escalations during the implementation period. 60% had to be redone at certain stages of project implementation. Further the study established that the effects of faulty processes included: late deliveries; non-purchase of required items; escalation of procurement budget; delivery of small quantities; delivery of wrong material sizes; non-delivery of ordered items; overpricing among others.Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: The study recommends the need to enhance supplier performance through; cross-functional team working of relevant county and national government departments, focused supplier development processes which includes training through continuous exposure to relevant regulatory requirements and improvement in the quality of Project Management Committee membership devoid of political inclinations.