INFLUENCE OF MONITORING AND EVALUATION PLANNING ON PERFORMANCE OF PERFORMANCE OF ENERGY PROJECTS IN RWANDA
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Abstract
This study investigates the influence of monitoring and evaluation (M&E) planning on the performance of energy projects at Oryx Energies Rwanda Ltd., addressing the critical role of M&E in achieving Rwanda’s goal of universal electricity access under the National Strategy for Transformation (NST1). Employing a descriptive survey design with a mixed-methods approach, the study targeted 136 stakeholders, including project managers, M&E experts, and technical officers, with a sample of 102 selected using stratified random sampling and Yamane’s (1967) formula. Data were collected through structured questionnaires, semi-structured interviews, and secondary sources, with pilot testing at Engen Petroleum ensuring instrument reliability (Cronbach’s alpha ≥ 0.7) and validity through expert reviews and factor analysis. Quantitative analysis using SPSS Version 27 revealed a significant positive relationship between M&E planning and project performance (R = 0.640, R² = 0.410, p = .000), with M&E planning explaining 41% of performance variance, as shown by the regression equation: Project Performance = 1.845 + 0.573 (M&E Planning). Qualitative thematic analysis complemented these findings, highlighting stakeholder perspectives on M&E effectiveness. Ethical standards, including informed consent, anonymity, and secure data storage, were strictly upheld. The results underscore M&E planning’s role in enhancing timeliness, budget adherence, and quality of deliverables, though gaps in community involvement and digital tool integration suggest areas for improvement. The study recommends strengthening participatory and technology-driven M&E frameworks to optimize energy project outcomes in Rwanda, supporting Vision 2050’s sustainable development goals.
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