Monitoring and Evaluation Approaches and Performance of Community Feeder Road Rehabilitation Projects

Abstract

M&E approaches are globally recognized as critical for improving the performance of community feeder road rehabilitation projects. However, many community-based initiatives, particularly in rural areas, face challenges such as suboptimal performance and delayed outcomes. The purpose of the study was to assess the influence of M&E approaches on performance of community feeder road rehabilitation projects in Gakenke District, Rwanda. The study was grounded on two theories of Goal Setting Theory and Resource-Based View (RBV) theory. The study used descriptive survey and correlational research designs with Structured questionnaires and interview guide for collecting data from 134 participants, selected through stratified, random and purposive sampling, from a target population of 384 stakeholders. The pilot study involved 14 respondents, representing 10% of the sample size. Validity was confirmed through expert evaluation, yielding a content validity index of 0.78 while Reliability was established using the split-half technique, achieving a Cronbach’s alpha coefficient of 0.79. Descriptive statistics and inferential statistics of Correlation and Regression were done at a significance level of 0.05 using SPSS version 28 while thematic content analysis of qualitative data was done for triangulation. The findings for four hypotheses were tested at ?=0.05 and the results were: M&E Planning (P=0.000<0.05); M&E Budget (P=0.000<0.05); M&E Capacity Building (P=0.000<0.05) and; M&E Data Utilization does not significantly influence project performance were all rejected, highlighting that they significantly contribute to performance of community feeder road rehabilitation project outcomes. The study concludes that community feeder roads rehabilitation projects have significantly improved beneficiaries’ livelihoods through enhanced planning, budgeting, capacity building and data utilization outcomes. It is recommended that the Community Feeder Roads Rehabilitation project emphasize inclusive stakeholder engagement, clear communication, and resource-sharing to sustain achievements while encouraging active participation, empowerment programs, and community forums to promote transparency and ownership. Future research should focus on qualitative insights, long-term impacts, and regional comparisons of these M&E Approaches.