Power Relations and Implementation of Public Work Initiatives: A Case of Kazi Mtaani in Uasin-Gishu County, Kenya

Abstract

The implementation of public works projects is globally recognized as an effective response to social and economic challenges. In modern times, however, public works initiatives are taken basically as a response to the bottlenecks inherent in national development processes. In Kenya, the implementation of the Kazi Mtaani projects is largely pursued devoid of an assessment of the power relation as a key antecedent factor. This study examined the contextual influence of power relations on the implementation of Kazi Mtaani projects in Uasin-Gishu County. It argued that the implementation of the projects has largely peripheralized the consideration of power relations as a factor in addressing the social and economic challenges affecting the youth. This entails consideration of the role and interrelations amongst the political elites in project implementation. The study was supported by stakeholder theory that highlights the relevance of actors especially in the project implementation phase. The study employed convergent parallel mixed method with a target population of 1430 youths, 14 employees of the Ministry of Youth and Social Welfare Services and 5 Members of Parliament. Stratified sampling was used to guarantee that all constituents are included in the research. A sample size of 314 respondents, representing 3 employees from the Ministry of Youth and Social Services and 310 youths and 1 Member of Parliament. Primary data were collected using questionnaires, interviews and Focus Group Discussions. Reliability was determined by use of Cronbach Alpha at a level of 0.7. Quantitative data were analyzed using Pearson Correlation and regression analysis. Qualitative data were thematically organized prior to reporting in narrations and quotations. The study found significant negative correlations between power relations and the implementation of the Kazi Mtaani Projects at (r= .710 p=0.01). These findings are significant for the analysis of the role political elites in project implementation. The study concluded that that power plays a crucial role for success and sustainability of public work initiatives; Kazi Mtaani not an exception. The study recommends that the Government to empower its citizenry and incorporate the youths in developmental activities which positively enhances their wellbeing in the society. In addition capacity building in all sectors should be activated to create awareness to youths on the usefulness of the short term economic activities initiated by the government.