DIGITAL PROJECT MONITORING TOOLS AND PERFORMANCE OF DONOR-FUNDED PROJECTS IN NAIROBI COUNTY, KENYA

Mariam Ayan Adam, Dr. Purity Gatobu

Abstract


Donor-funded projects play a crucial role in Kenya’s socio-economic development, yet many continue to experience challenges in efficiency, accountability, and timely completion despite significant investment. These performance gaps have often been attributed to weak monitoring systems, delayed reporting, and limited data utilisation. This study examined the effect of digital project monitoring tools on the performance of donor-funded projects in Nairobi County, Kenya. Specifically, the study focused on the influence of real-time reporting, and dashboard utilisation on project performance. The study was guided by Systems Theory, and Stewardship Theory which collectively explain how digital systems, accountability, organisational capabilities, and information exchange contribute to project outcomes. A descriptive research design was adopted. The target population comprised project managers, monitoring and evaluation officers, and technical staff drawn from donor-funded organisations operating within Nairobi County. A sample of 118 respondents was selected using stratified and simple random sampling techniques to ensure representation across sectors. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire that was pre-tested through a pilot study to determine its reliability and validity. Quantitative data were analysed using descriptive statistics (means and standard deviations) and inferential statistics (correlation and multiple regression analysis) with the aid of SPSS software. The results were presented in tables and interpreted narratively. The findings revealed that digital project monitoring tools significantly improve project performance. Real-time reporting emerged as the most influential factor, followed by dashboard utilisation. The study concluded that digital transformation is a strategic enabler of project success and recommended that donor-funded organisations institutionalise real-time reporting systems, and adopt integrated dashboards. These measures will ensure evidence-based management, transparency, and sustainable performance in donor-funded projects.

 

Key Words: Digital Project Monitoring Tools, Performance of Donor-Funded Projects, Real-Time Reporting, Dashboard Utilisation, Project Performance


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References


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