PROJECT MANAGER’S SKILLS AND PERFORMANCE OF CONSTRUCTION PROJECTS: A CASE OF RUKARARA HYDRO POWER PLANT PROJECT IN NYAMAGABE DISTRICT, RWANDA.

Abstract

The general objective of this research was to assess the effect of project manager's skills on performance of Rukarara Hydro Power Plant project in Nyamagabe District, Rwanda. This study was guided by Human Capital Theory, Resource-Based View Theory, Theory of Change and Control Theory. This study used descriptive and correlational design with quantitative and qualitative approach to describe and correlate variables. The study population was 188 participants, who consisted of Project Managers, Project Team Members and Project consultants. The study used a census method to obtain data as the population was managable. In order to analyze quantitative data, the researcher used SPSS version 25 to calculate descriptive statistics, correlations, and regression analysis. Findings from Resource Planning Skills revealed unstandardized coefficient (β₁) of 0.355, indicating that for each unit increase in resource planning skills, project performance increased by 0.355 units, significant at p = 0.000 with t=4.128. Leadership Skills showed a coefficient (β₂) of 0.187, with a p-value of 0.010 with t=2.597, indicating that improvements in leadership skills were also positively and significantly associated with project performance. Communication Skills had a coefficient (β₃) of 0.158 and was significant at p = 0.016 with t=2.431, reflecting a significant positive effect on project performance. Finally, results from Monitoring and Evaluation Skills had a coefficient (β₄) of 0.177, significant at p = 0.001 with t=3.340, indicating its positive effect on project performance. Overall, the coefficients demonstrated that all four independent variables significantly affected performance of Rukarara Hydro Power Plant project in Nyamagabe District. This study concluded that project manager’s skills specifically in resource planning, leadership, communication, and monitoring and evaluation have a significant and positive impact on the performance of the Rukarara Hydro Power Plant project in Rwanda. This research recommended that Rukarara Hydro Power Plant project should strengthen a structured communication protocols that encourage open dialogue and regular feedback among team members and stakeholders.