PROJECT CONSTRAINTS AND IMPLEMENTATION OF RUSUMO-BUGESERA-SHANGO 220 kV TRANSMISSION LINE PROJECT IN RWANDA
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Abstract
This study aimed to investigate project constraints and their impact on the scope implementation of electrical power transmission and distribution projects in Rwanda, using the Rusumo-Bugesera-Shango 220kV transmission line as a case study. Specifically, the study examined the effects of financial, time, scope, and resource constraints on project implementation. A descriptive and correlational research design was adopted, targeting a population of 484 stakeholders directly involved in the project. The sample size, determined using Slovin’s formula, was 219 respondents, selected through stratified random sampling. The study utilized both primary and secondary data collection methods. A pilot test involving 22 participants from Ignite Power, a company specializing in off-grid power connections, was conducted to assess the reliability and validity of the research instruments. Validity was ensured through face, construct, and criterion evaluation, while reliability was confirmed using the test-retest method and Cronbach’s alpha coefficient. Data analysis was conducted systematically using SPSS version 25, involving data coding, entry, and cleaning to ensure accuracy and consistency. Both descriptive and inferential statistical methods were applied. Descriptive statistics, such as mean, standard deviation, and frequency distributions, provided an overview of project delay factors, while thematic analysis was employed for qualitative data, which was presented narratively. The regression analysis revealed significant findings on the impact of constraints on project implementation. Financial constraints had a significant positive impact, with a coefficient of 0.524 (p = 0.000), indicating that financial limitations, when managed effectively, can lead to better project outcomes. Similarly, time constraints showed a positive effect on project implementation, with a coefficient of 0.266 (p = 0.004), suggesting that limited time pressures can enhance efficiency and productivity. However, scope constraints had a negative impact, as indicated by a coefficient of -0.070 (p = 0.049), meaning that an increase in scope limitations reduces project implementation effectiveness. In contrast, resource constraints positively influenced project implementation, with a coefficient of 0.080 (p = 0.014), implying that resource limitations may drive innovation and efficiency in project execution. In conclusion, financial, time, and resource constraints positively contribute to project implementation, whereas scope constraints hinder it. These findings highlight the importance of strategic constraint management in ensuring successful project execution. To enhance project outcomes, project managers should focus on mitigating scope limitations while efficiently handling financial, time, and resource constraints. The study recommends that policymakers and project managers implement structured financial planning, optimize time management strategies, and ensure resource allocation efficiency to improve project execution. Additionally, future research should explore the interplay of different project constraints across various industries and examine how external factors, such as market conditions and regulatory policies, influence project implementation. This study contributes to the growing body of knowledge on project constraints in large-scale infrastructure projects, particularly in the energy sector. Its findings provide valuable insights for stakeholders involved in power transmission and distribution projects, enabling them to make informed decisions that enhance efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and overall project success.
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References
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