Stakeholder engagement, social capital and project sustainability of water resources in Pallisa district.

Abstract

This study examined the mediation role of social capital in the relationship between stakeholder engagement and project sustainability on water resources in Pallisa District. Using a cross-sectional research design and quantitative approach, we drew a sample of 103 projects for a total population of 140 water resources in Pallisa District. Using SPSS, the study found that stakeholder engagement and social capital independently predicted project sustainability. As well, social capital emerged as a significant positive partial mediator in the relationship between stakeholder engagement and project sustainability. The study contributes to project sustainability literature by providing support for social capital as a significant mediator in the relationship between stakeholder engagement and project sustainability among water resource projects. Given the study findings, the study recommends enhanced stakeholder engagement and building robust social networks as these have been found key drivers for project sustainability improvement. This study was limited by a research approach which was purely quantitative with associated problems such as inability to control the research environment, improper representation of the target population besides limited study outcomes. Keywords: Stakeholder Engagement, Social Capital and Project Sustainability