Influence of stakeholder involvement on performance of world food programme projects in Juba, South Sudan.

Abstract

The paper investigates the influence of stakeholder involvement on performance of world food programme projects in Juba, South Sudan. The study was guided by the Stakeholder Theory. The target population consisted of 113 individuals associated with World Food Programme (WFP) projects in Juba, South Sudan including WFP employees, local leaders and organizational partners, beneficiaries, government entities at various levels, and international partners, including donors and NGOs. Stratified random sampling method was used to determine an appropriate sample size from the target population of 113 individuals involved with World Food Programme (WFP) projects in Juba, South Sudan. To achieve a 95% confidence level with a 5% margin of error, the sample size was calculated to be approximately 87 participants. Data was collected through structured questionnaires and interviews. Quantitative data underwent analysis, including descriptive and inferential statistics like Pearson correlations and regression analysis, using SPSS version 27. Stakeholder involvement emerged as a crucial factor in WFP project performance. The study reveals that stakeholder involvement positively impacts the performance of World Food Programme (WFP) projects in Juba, South Sudan. The effective involvement of WFP employees in project planning contributes to better project execution, ifstakeholders are adequately consulted, although there is room for more comprehensive engagement. Beneficiaries' needs are well understood and addressed, enhancing project relevance and sustainability. Government entities
provide timely support, aligning projects with national policies, while international partners contribute effectively through funding and expertise, ensuring project viability. The study recommends increasing the depth and breadth of stakeholder consultation throughout project implementation, involving more structured meetings with local leaders, community representatives, and organizational partners. Implementing robust feedback mechanisms to continually assess and respond to beneficiaries' needs is essential. Encouraging greater community
involvement in decision-making processes by establishing advisory boards and including local representatives in planning committees will build local ownership.