The Effectiveness of Risk Mitigation Strategies in Project Portfolios in Zambia

Abstract

This study examined the effectiveness of risk mitigation strategies within project portfolios in Zambia, focusing on EaRN Zambia, Seeds of Change, and Bracing Africa’s health which are Zambian non-governmental organisations. The research aimed to assess how these organizations identified, assessed, and managed risks while ensuring project sustainability. A qualitative case study approach was employed, utilizing semi-structured interviews and document analysis to collect data from 13 key stakeholders across the three organizations. Findings revealed that risk mitigation strategies varied significantly among the organizations. EaRN Zambia relied on scenario planning to anticipate uncertainties, whereas Seeds of Change integrated community engagement and education as proactive measures. Brasys prioritized data-driven decision-making to monitor and address risks. The study highlighted key challenges, including financial constraints, resistance to change, and operational complexities. The research contributed to the field by emphasizing the need for context-specific strategies aligned with organizational goals. Key recommendations included enhancing risk-awareness training for staff and improving stakeholder engagement through participatory approaches. These findings provided actionable insights for policymakers and development organizations in Zambia’s project management sector. Based on these insights, the study proposes a context specific risk management framework tailored to Zambia’s socio-economic environment. This framework integrates contingency-driven practices, participatory decision-making, and cost-effective monitoring tools, offering actionable guidance for policymakers and NGOs. The research contributes to risk management literature by bridging global theories with local realities, emphasizing the role of institutional and cultural contexts in shaping resilience. Keywords: Risk mitigation, project management, Zambia, scenario planning, stakeholder engagement, qualitative case study