The Effects of Stakeholder Engagement on Project Delivery: A Case of the United Nations Development Program in Zambia

Abstract

Stakeholder engagement is a critical determinant of success in development projects. For the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Zambia, aligning initiatives with national development goals, fostering community participation, and ensuring inter-agency collaboration are essential for achieving project sustainability and impact. However, challenges such as misaligned priorities, limited inclusivity, and weak coordination often hinder the effectiveness of these initiatives. This study adopts a mixed-methods approach to explore the role of stakeholder engagement in UNDP projects, drawing insights from 22 respondents, including project managers, government officials, and representatives from civil society organizations. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews, surveys, and desk reviews, with quantitative analysis conducted using STATA MP 17 and qualitative data analysed thematically. The findings reveal that communication is universally recognized as a cornerstone of effective stakeholder engagement, with all respondents rating it as extremely important. Inclusivity in decision-making, clarity of roles, and availability of resources were also identified as key factors contributing to successful engagement. Significant barriers, including a lack of communication, misaligned goals, and financial constraints, were highlighted as critical areas for improvement. Regular stakeholder meetings emerged as the most commonly employed engagement method, while strategies such as establishing joint planning committees and enhancing capacity-building were recommended to improve collaboration. By prioritizing communication, transparency, trust-building, and inclusivity, UNDP projects can better align with stakeholder needs and national development goals, ensuring long-term sustainability and impact. The study provides a practical framework for enhancing stakeholder collaboration, emphasizing the importance of clear communication protocols, defined roles, and inclusive practices to overcome existing challenges and improve development outcomes. Keywords: Stakeholder engagement, UNDP, development interventions, project success, Zambia, communication, inclusivity, collaboration.