Factors causing Delays of Implementation of Nkhuzi Water Project with Particular Reference to Mangochi District

Research Paper (postgraduate) from the year 2023 in the subject Geography / Earth Science - Regional Geography, grade: 18, , course: MSW IN PROJECT IMPLEMENTATION, MONITORING AND EVALUATION, language: English, abstract: Water projects are essential for the development of nations globally. Ironically the common problem in Malawi is the deviation from the planned time schedule of the water supply system development projects. Like in Mangochi, the extension project of water supply system at Nkhuzi hill delayed despite having a number of anticipated benefits to the residents as well as the nation. It is thus for this reason that the study to evaluate factors leading to the delay of Nkhuzi water project was conducted. Basically delays have frequently marred projects in Malawi with great concern by significantly impacting stakeholders both financially and socially. For this study, data was collected by specifically using questionnaires. Of course in other scenarios, case study was involved making triangulation the method to validate reliability. The results were also drawn from earlier studies combined with interviews with water projects construction experts and other concerned stakeholders.

The occurrence of schedule delays has serious impact on project investment, efficiency, cost and even reputation. Southern region water board is among the statutory corporations whose projects have been affected either during construction or actual implementation phases. The delays in construction of water projects have many impacts on the stakeholders.

The study found that the delay was due to building permit approval and laws-regulations regarding the project site. Identifying the causes of the delay, can provide a possibility to minimize such delays and the consequences. Since the project was permitted to progress after a delay, the study is expected to be used to draft a framework on how future projects shall be handled.