An Analysis of Project Management Practices in implementing Constituency Development Fund (Cdf) Projects: A Case Study of Selected Constituencies of Monze District

Abstract

This study analyzed the project management practices in the implementation of Constituency Development Fund (CDF) projects in the selected constituencies within Monze District. The primary objective analyses project management practices used in the chosen constituency to implement CDF projects and determine how these practices relate to implementation challenges. The goal of the study was to address the gap existing in the literature by assessing the possible effects of present project management practices on CDF projects in the Monze District, as evidenced by the challenges and delays that locals in the area had described. The study used a descriptive survey research design, data was collected through a questionnaires and interviews and subsequently analysed using a mixed methods approach. Multiple regression analysis tested the hypotheses' significance, revealing that planning and budget, monitoring and evaluation, stakeholder engagement, procurement and contracting, and risk management significantly influenced CDF project implementation. The study established that there are existing challenges in project management practices during the implementation of CDF projects, such as poor prioritization of work, local contractors' engagement, a lack of monitoring tools, and work overlap. Among other things, the study recommended strengthening the capacity of local contractors through the Zambia Public Procurement Authority, increasing the number of employees at Monze Town Council through the Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development, and reorganizing the community development committee to incorporate ward development committees. These measures are intended to improve project management capabilities and deal with specific issues that were identified during the implementation of CDF projects. KEY WORDS: Constituency Development Fund, Project Management Practice