Abstract:
In Kenya, NGO-led Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) projects are crucial in addressing the pressing needs for clean water and improved sanitation facilities, particularly in underserved regions. However, in Isiolo County, Kenya, NGO-led WASH projects face considerable challenges that undermine their effectiveness. Isiolo is characterized by arid and semi-arid conditions, which complicate the provision of reliable water sources and sanitation facilities. Recent data highlights that nearly 60% of the population in Isiolo County lacks access to safe drinking water, and sanitation coverage is similarly inadequate. The general objective of the study was to establish the influence of risk management strategies on performance of NGO-led wash projects in Isiolo County, Kenya. Specifically, the study sought to establish the influence of risk reduction on performance of NGO-led wash projects in Isiolo County, Kenya, to assess the influence of risk transfer on performance of NGO-led wash projects in Isiolo County, Kenya. This study used of a descriptive research design. The study targeted NGO-led wash projects in Isiolo County, Kenya. According to the NGO Coordination Board as of 31st December 2023, there are 36 NGO-led wash projects in Isiolo County, Kenya. The study targeted management employees working with these NGOs. The total population was therefore 216 respondents. The study used simple random sampling in selecting the sample from study population. The researcher obtained a letter of confirmation from the University for Collection of data. A research permit was also obtained from National Commission for Science, Technology and Innovation. Primary data was used in this study. The study’s primary data was obtained using a structured questionnaire. The study conducted a pilot study on 10% of the sample hence 14 respondents. This study used both construct validity and content validity. The Cronbach Alpha coefficient was used to measure the consistency of variables. Primary data was analyzed using both descriptive statistics (frequency, percentage, mean) and inferential statistics that included Pearson correlation and regression. The findings revealed that strategies had a significant positive impact on project performance, with risk transfer having the highest coefficient (0.387, p = 0.000), followed by risk reduction (0.345, p = 0.000). These results suggest that risk management is critical to project success, with risk transfer being the most effective. It is concluded that implementing comprehensive risk management strategies enhances project outcomes. The study recommends NGOs to prioritize risk transfer through contracts, reinforce preventive measures to further improve performance.
