Content area
Recognizing that effective road infrastructure is vital for socioeconomic development, this research addressed the persistent challenges that hindered project execution, including delays, cost overruns, and compromised quality often linked to inadequate M&E practices. The study examined the influence of M&E practices on implementation of road construction projects in Musanze District, Rwanda with specific focus on M&E planning, M&E data utilization, and M&E digitalization on implementation of road construction projects. This study used the theory of change and constraints theory. The study employed descriptive survey and correlational research designs with questionnaire and interview for collecting data from a sample of 153 respondent out of 247 key stakeholders. The instruments were pretested in a pilot study involving 10% of the sample to ensure validity and reliability, achieving a Cronbach's alpha coefficient of 0.78. Descriptive and inferential statistics of correlation and regression were done at a significance level of 0.05 with thematic content analysis of qualitative data for triangulation. The findings revealed that road construction projects generally performed above average, with 68.6% of respondents confirming that projects were completed within budget, 69.9% stating that milestones were met on time, and 65.3% satisfied with the quality of materials and road quality. The hypotheses that M&E Planning, M&E Data Utilization, M&E Digitalization and M&E Capacity Building does not significantly influence the implementation of road construction projects were rejected as p = 0.000 < 0.05. In conclusion all four null hypotheses were rejected, demonstrating that M&E planning, data utilization, digitalization, and capacity building significantly influence the implementation of road construction projects. The study recommended enhancing community engagement, strengthening M&E planning, expanding digitalization efforts, prioritizing ongoing capacity building, and fostering a culture of data-driven decision-making. Suggestions for further studies included comparing M&E practices across infrastructure sectors such as water or energy projects, to identify cross-sectoral best practices and potential areas for improvement, exploring emerging technologies like AI and block chain, and analyzing the impact of national and regional policies on M&E practices.
Keywords:
Monitoring and Evaluation practices, M&E planning, Data utilization, Digitalization, Capacity building, Implementation of road construction projects
JEL Classification:
O22, H43
ABSTRACT
Recognizing that effective road infrastructure is vital for socioeconomic development, this research addressed the persistent challenges that hindered project execution, including delays, cost overruns, and compromised quality often linked to inadequate M&E practices. The study examined the influence of M&E practices on implementation of road construction projects in Musanze District, Rwanda with specific focus on M&E planning, M&E data utilization, and M&E digitalization on implementation of road construction projects. This study used the theory of change and constraints theory. The study employed descriptive survey and correlational research designs with questionnaire and interview for collecting data from a sample of 153 respondent out of 247 key stakeholders. The instruments were pretested in a pilot study involving 10% of the sample to ensure validity and reliability, achieving a Cronbach's alpha coefficient of 0.78. Descriptive and inferential statistics of correlation and regression were done at a significance level of 0.05 with thematic content analysis of qualitative data for triangulation. The findings revealed that road construction projects generally performed above average, with 68.6% of respondents confirming that projects were completed within budget, 69.9% stating that milestones were met on time, and 65.3% satisfied with the quality of materials and road quality. The hypotheses that M&E Planning, M&E Data Utilization, M&E Digitalization and M&E Capacity Building does not significantly influence the implementation of road construction projects were rejected as p = 0.000 < 0.05. In conclusion all four null hypotheses were rejected, demonstrating that M&E planning, data utilization, digitalization, and capacity building significantly influence the implementation of road construction projects. The study recommended enhancing community engagement, strengthening M&E planning, expanding digitalization efforts, prioritizing ongoing capacity building, and fostering a culture of data-driven decision-making. Suggestions for further studies included comparing M&E practices across infrastructure sectors such as water or energy projects, to identify cross-sectoral best practices and potential areas for improvement, exploring emerging technologies like AI and block chain, and analyzing the impact of national and regional policies on M&E practices.
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Introduction
The significance of M&E in project management has grown substantially on a global scale since the late 20th century, particularly after recognizing that weak M&E frameworks were a primary cause of unsuccessful government projects (World Bank, 2021). Beginning in the late 1970s and early 1980s, countries increasingly adopted M&E practices, driven by a need to promote long-term project sustainability (World Bank, 2017). Today, M&E is regarded as a foundational component of sustainable project development, integrated early in the planning process rather than considered afterward. The Canadian International Development Agency has increasingly emphasized the role of M&E in sustaining government projects, advocating for more participatory approaches that involve local stakeholders (Canadian International Development Agency, 2016).
Organizations such as USAID and GAC have pioneered innovative M&E frameworks that are data-driven and participatory, leveraged technology to implement robust, real-time M&E systems, which provide data for evidence-based decision-making (USAID, 2020). Furthermore, Global Affairs Canada's focus on inclusive M&E practices has ensured that local stakeholders are part of the evaluation process, enhancing community ownership and accountability (Global Affairs Canada, 2019). In Europe, the European Union (EU) has long been an advocate of results-oriented M&E, embedding it into its development and policy projects across member states and beyond, such as mandatory performance audits and impact assessments for transparency and accountability in project management (European Commission, 2018).
In Asia, the Asian Development Bank (ADB) has been instrumental in promoting M&E across Asia, integrating these practices into its projects to track and measure progress towards socio-economic development. Countries like India, China, and the Philippines have adopted ADB's M&E models, adapting them to fit local contexts while ensuring alignment with regional development goals (Asian Development Bank, 2018). ADB's emphasis on local stakeholder involvement which ensures that M&E practices are inclusive, context-specific, and sensitive to cultural nuances, which increases the relevance and effectiveness of project outcomes (Asian Development Bank, 2018). This approach has strengthened the region's capacity for self-evaluation and adaptive project management.
In African contexts, such as Nigeria and South Africa, M&E has enhanced citizen engagement in political and project-related decision-making (Mulwa, 2017). These trends underscore the evolving perspective on M&E as instruments to not only enhance project outcomes but also empower local communities and ensure equitable distribution of benefits (Mulwa, 2017). However, traditional evaluation methods often excluded local stakeholders, reducing them to passive recipients rather than active participants (Canadian International Development Agency, 2016). This shift in approach highlights the importance of inclusive M&E practices that consider and leverage contributions from beneficiaries, local organizations, and governments. In East Africa, countries such as Kenya have prioritized M&E to improve project sustainability and effectiveness. Participatory M&E approaches have been associated with greater accountability and community empowerment, helping to build social capital, particularly among marginalized groups (Duggal, 2015). The unique challenges faced by different regions require customized M&E frameworks that reflect local conditions. For example, M&E implementation in Kenya has focused on enhancing inclusivity and stakeholder involvement to better meet local needs (Mansuri, 2016).
Rwanda's approach to M&E highlights its commitment to advancing project sustainability and effectiveness, especially in infrastructure development. The Rwandan government has recognized M&E as essential for ensuring the success of government projects and has emphasized the benefits of participatory M&E for improving project efficiency and effectiveness (Gee, 2016). Under the Vision 2050 framework, infrastructure development, particularly road construction, has been prioritized to support economic growth and connectivity. Road infrastructure is critical for enabling trade, tourism, and access to essential services, particularly in areas like Musanze District, a hub for Rwanda's tourism and agricultural sectors. Nonetheless, challenges such as delays, cost overruns, and quality issues continue to affect project implementation in Rwanda (Rwanda Transport Development Agency, 2022). The World Bank (2020) notes that road construction is a vital part of infrastructure development in emerging economies, as improved connectivity is key to fostering economic growth and enhancing access to services. The central question remains: how effective and efficient are the current monitoring processes in managing road construction projects in Rwanda?
The Rwandan Ministry of Roads Service Charter (2008) highlights the strategic importance of road infrastructure, noting that it supports around 80% of cargo and passenger transport across the country. Recognizing the critical role of roads in economic growth, a significant increase of government infrastructure funding has been effected, reaching FRW 134.9 billion for the 2020/2021 fiscal year. However, obstacles such as lengthy procurement procedures, limited technological adoption by construction firms, and insufficient monitoring frameworks persist, impeding project success. Robust M&E practices are essential for addressing these challenges, ensuring projects align with predefined objectives, are completed within the set timeframe, and meet quality standards (Kusek & Rist, 2018). Effective M&E enables a structured approach for tracking progress, managing resources, and identifying risks key factors for the successful completion of road projects. Research indicates that M&E frameworks are especially effective when they include strong planning, continuous data collection, regular reporting, and adaptive follow-up processes (UNDP, 2021). These elements equip project managers to make informed decisions, address potential issues proactively, and allocate resources effectively to meet project needs. While Rwanda has made efforts to improve infrastructure monitoring, gaps in M&E practices remain, especially in rural areas where resource limitations and technical constraints pose significant challenges (African Development Bank, 2022). The National Project Development (NPD) road construction project in Musanze District provides a representative case for examining these issues. Understanding the impact of M&E practices on the successful implementation of such projects is crucial for guiding policy adjustments and enhancing the effectiveness of future infrastructure initiatives in Rwanda.
To address the aforementioned gaps, this study sought to assess the influence of M&E practices of M&E planning, data utilization, digitalization and capacity building on implementation of road construction projects in Musanze District, Rwanda. The study hypothesized that: M&E planning, data utilization, digitalization and capacity building does not significantly influence implementation of road construction projects. Findings provide a new knowledge that bridges the gap on the linkage between the variables under investigation, besides informing policy actions, industry applications and referencing by other scholars. This will enhance a data driven decision making in projects regarding their M&E activities to ensure their completion within time, budget, quality and with customer satisfaction.
Literature Review
Theoretical Review
Theory of Change and Constraints Theory were used.
Theory of Change
Theory of change founded in 1995 by Weiss exploits the necessary conditions required to effect change, why the change should occur and who should undertake the change or who to benefit from the change. This is informed by the interventions undertaken in a project to meet the project beneficiaries. For the change to be realized there needs to a baseline data against which the M&E findings will be compared to for gauging whether there was change of no progress was achieved even after the interventions had been undertaken. For this change to be realized within the premise of M&E exercise, a holistic understanding of the tenets holding M&E needs to properly defined, including, M&E planning, data utilization, digitalization and capacity building. When all these facets of M&E are integrated, then the anticipated change within a project can be evaluated without creating gaps in the measurement of the performance metrics. The theory therefore remains fundamental in the project evaluation to substantiate any change gain or decline within a project.
Empirical review
The empirical review entails examining previous works of other scholars to identify the gaps and areas of complement.
M&E Planning and Implementation of Road Construction Projects
In Europe, Turner and Müller (2019) examining how structured M&E planning impacts large infrastructure projects, including road construction. Their research identified that projects with well-articulated M&E plans experienced an improvement in timeline adherence due to the proactive identification of risks, such as resource bottlenecks and operational delays. The researchers highlighted that M&E planning helps in aligning resource allocation with project milestones, allowing for adaptive adjustments to be made to meet evolving project needs. The study underscored the value of consistent and early M&E planning discussions among stakeholders, which improved communication flow and led to enhanced accountability and transparency throughout project phases. This systematic planning approach, they concluded, significantly minimized financial and temporal losses, especially critical in projects dependent on government funding and cross-regional collaboration.
A study by Osei-Kyei and Chan (2020) investigated the role of M&E planning in public road construction projects in Ghana, finding that well-established M&E planning processes improved project adherence to both budget and quality standards. This effect was largely due to the early detection of resource gaps and strategic scheduling, which prevented cost escalations and ensured that quality benchmarks were consistently met. The study highlighted that in the African context, where resource constraints are common, M&E planning serves as a vital mechanism for optimizing limited resources and maintaining quality standards.
In Rwanda, Mukandamura & Ruzigana (2022) in their examination of the Kigali-Butare Road construction project, researcher analyze the specific M&E planning processes employed and their effectiveness. They identify key challenges faced during the planning phase, including insufficient stakeholder engagement and a lack of clear objectives. The study reveals that projects lacking a detailed M&E plan often encounter difficulties in tracking progress and evaluating outcomes. Through qualitative interviews with project managers and stakeholders, the authors discovered that enhanced M&E planning significantly contributed to project success. The Kigali-Butare project, with its clear M&E framework, was able to adjust its strategies based on real-time data, resulting in improved project execution. The findings reveals that the necessity of robust M&E planning in ensuring project success, advocating for more comprehensive frameworks that include all relevant stakeholders in the planning process.
M&E Data Utilization and Implementation of Road Construction Projects
Xha's (2014) focused on the importance of M&E data utilization in identifying and addressing performance gaps in infrastructure projects. By examining how M&E data reveals discrepancies between planned and actual project performance, highlighting the need for timely data analysis to adjust project strategies effectively. This approach enables managers to focus on areas that require improvement, leading to better resource management and reduced cost overruns. The findings indicate that infrastructure projects utilizing M&E data to address performance gaps experienced efficiency improvements and saw cost reductions due to proactive adjustments.
Harries (2018) examines data driven decision-making processes within the M&E activities of road construction projects. The study investigates how real-time data collection and subsequent utilization provide project managers with actionable insights, such as identifying underperforming areas, managing resource allocation, and adjusting timelines accordingly. This data-driven approach supports early detection of project weaknesses, allowing for timely interventions to mitigate delays and budget issues. Projects that integrated data-driven decision-making processes showed an improvement in project timelines and a reduction in unexpected delays. This efficiency gain underscores the essence of M&E data as a tool to enhance both project outcomes and management responsiveness.
In Rwanda, Habineza and Niyonsenga (2022) assesses the use of M&E data in Rwanda's road projects. Their findings indicate that effective data utilization leads to improved project outcomes, including timely completion and budget adherence. The authors conducted interviews with project managers and stakeholders, revealing that while some projects successfully used M&E data to inform decision-making, others faced challenges due to data accessibility and quality. The study cites the success of a rural road construction project in enhancing local communities' connectivity as a result of effective M&E data utilization. The project employed community feedback mechanisms to ensure that construction efforts aligned with local needs, demonstrating the power of data in fostering participatory project management.
Reddy and Kumar (2021) explored monitoring and evaluation data utilization in enhancing project performance within road infrastructure projects. Their research highlights how effective data collection and analysis can bridge the gap between project planning and execution. By utilizing M&E data, project managers can identify discrepancies early on and make necessary adjustments, which can significantly improve project outcomes. This improvement is attributed to the proactive measures taken based on the insights gained from the data, which facilitated timely interventions in areas such as resource allocation and timeline adjustments. The study emphasizes the importance of building a culture of data-driven decision-making within project teams. The findings underscore the necessity of institutionalizing M&E practices that encourage continuous learning and adaptation in road construction projects, ultimately contributing to better management and oversight.
M&E Di italization and Im lementation of Road Construction Projects
Andrews, Etim, & Lee (2022) examine the integration of digital monitoring and evaluation tools in road construction, focusing on how these tools enhance project visibility and streamline communication among stakeholders. Their research highlights that digital platform, such as cloud-based project management and data analytics systems, minimize the delays often caused by traditional paperbased reporting. Digital tools also enable better tracking of real-time data, allowing project teams to identify issues early and make timely adjustments. Projects utilizing digital M&E tools experienced a reduction in delays and an improvement in project transparency, illustrating how digitalization facilitates efficient communication and effective monitoring of complex projects.
A study by Mahmoud (2021) focuses on using real-time data capture through digital M&E tools to improve transparency and accountability in road construction. By implementing digital applications for immediate data recording and retrieval, this study finds that project teams are able to maintain an accurate and transparent log of project activities. These tools support audit trails, helping stakeholders to hold project personnel accountable for any discrepancies and ensure adherence to standards. The use of digital M&E tools improved project outcomes, with enhanced accountability measures decrease in oversight issues, underscoring the value of digital transparency in promoting project integrity.
In Rwanda, Ndayambaje & Mugisha (2023) discuss implementation of technology in monitoring urban road construction projects. They emphasize the importance of adopting digital tools for effective project management and communication among stakeholders. The study provides evidence of how digital platforms facilitate better data collection, reporting, and analysis. The authors present a case study of the Kigali Urban Roads project, where digital M&E practices led to enhanced collaboration between project managers and local communities. The use of mobile applications for real-time data collection allowed for quicker response times to emerging issues, resulting in fewer delays.
M&E Capacity Building and Implementation of Road Construction Projects
The IMED Bangladesh study (2023) emphasizes targeted capacity-building programs for field inspectors and M&E personnel as a means to improve project efficiency. The study highlights how training initiatives in data management, compliance, and quality assurance allow personnel to address operational delays and maintain adherence to project timelines, thus supporting project continuity and completion. Capacity-building efforts reduced operational delays and improved adherence to timelines, illustrating the effectiveness of M&E training in facilitating project success.
In Rwanda, Niyongira (2021) assessed M&E facets on project delivery and established that M&E budget, employee skills and stakeholder engagement affect project performance. Even though projects were implemented within cost and budget, some projects still failed to achieve their objectives and this was attributed to gaps in integration of the above-mentioned M&E fundamental inputs. Osei and Akoto (2020) discuss the challenges of building M&E capacity in African road construction projects, identifying factors such as limited resources, lack of trained personnel, and inadequate institutional frameworks. Their research highlights successful capacity-building initiatives that have led to improved project outcomes in several African countries. One successful initiative involved a collaborative training program between regional governments and international NGOs in Ghana, focusing on enhancing M&E skills among project staff. The training resulted in enhanced data management for informed decision management in road projects. The findings suggest that addressing the capacity-building challenges is crucial for enhancing the effectiveness of expanded overview of the studies related to each specified objective regarding the M&E of road projects.
Methodology
Descriptive and correlational research designs were employed with questionnaire and interview used for collecting data from 153 respondents out of 247 participants comprising of stakeholders (Ministry of Infrastructure, Development Partners as World Bank, Construction Companies, Consultants and M&E Experts, Local Communities and Beneficiaries of Musanze District), staff of Musanze district include Project Management, Project Supervisor, Project engineers and Station engineers. A pilot study was conducted on 15 respondents which constituted 10% of the sample size, the validity was done through expert judgement yielding a validity index of 0.78 while Cronbach's reliability coefficient was 0.78.
The study adopts both descriptive and inferential statistics of correlation and regression at a significant level of 0.05 using SPSS Version 28. Both simple and multiple regression analysis was done. The simple regression model: Y= α+β1X1+ ę The multiple regression model:
...
Findings and Discussion
A return rate of 79% was achieved making data collected viable for further analysis.
M&E Planning and Implementation of Road Construction Projects
To assess the linkage between M&E planning and implementation of road projects, both correlation and regression analysis were done.
Relationship between M&E Planning and Implementation of Road Construction Projects
A correlation analysis for estimating the existence of the linkage between the variables was done.
There is a strong positive correlation (R=0.689) between M&E Planning and Implementation of Road Construction Projects, which is statistically significant (p=0.000, p<0.05). Thus, as M&E planning improves, the implementation of road construction projects also tends to improve to a moderate extent. Mukandamura & Ruzigana (2022) also conclude that projects lacking a detailed M&E plan often encounter difficulties in tracking progress and evaluating outcomes.
Influence of M&E Planning on Implementation of Road Construction Projects
With correlation having been established, a linear regression was undertaken.
An R2 value=0.475 with p=0.000<0.05; showing that M&E Planning accounts for 47.5% of implementation of road construction projects. The model was a good fit for analysis with F (1,151) =133.03, (p=0.000<0.05). The coefficients of the intercept (β=1.912, p=0.036<0.05) and M&E Planning (β=0.707, p=0.000<0.05) were statistically significant. This implies that for every unit increase in M&E Planning, the implementation of road construction projects improves by 0.707 units. Linearly, ?? = 1.912 + 0.707??1
Test for Hypothesis one
H01: There is no significant influence between M&E Planning and Implementation of Road Construction Projects; was rejected (p=0.000<0.05). Thus, there is a significant influence between M&E planning and Implementation of Road Construction Projects.
M&E Data Utilization and Implementation of Road Construction Projects
On assessing M&E data utilization and implementation of road construction, a correlation and regression analysis was done.
Relationship between M&E Data Utilization and Implementation of Road Construction Projects
A correlation was done to find out the linkage between M&E Data Utilization and Implementation of Road Construction Projects.
There is a strong positive correlation (R = 0.712) between M&E data utilization and implementation of Road Construction Projects, which is statistically significant (p = 0.000, p < 0.05). Thus, as M&E data utilization increases, implementation of Road Construction Projects also improves to a moderate extent. Habineza and Niyonsenga (2022) assesses the use of M&E data in road construction projects in Rwanda, focusing on the Northern Province. Their findings indicate that effective data utilization leads to improved project outcomes, including timely completion and budget adherence.
Influence of M&E Data Utilization on Implementation of Road Construction Projects
With correlation having been established between variables under investigation, a regression analysis followed
An R2 value= 0.507 with p=0.000<0.05; showing that M&E Data Utilization accounts for 50.7% of implementation of road construction projects. The model was a good fit for analysis with F (1,151) =134.28, (p=0.000<0.05). The coefficients of the intercept (β0=2.014, p=0.000<0.05) and M&E Data Utilization (β2=0.682, p=0.000<0.05) were statistically significant. This implies that for every unit increase in M&E Data Utilization, implementation of road construction projects improves by 0.682 units. Linearly, ?? = 2.014 + 0.682??2
Test for Hypothesis two
H02: There is no significant influence between M&E data utilization and Implementation of Road Construction Projects; was rejected (p=0.000<0.05). Thus, there is a significant influence between M&E data utilization significantly influences Implementation of Road Construction Projects.
M&E Digitalization on Implementation of Road Construction Projects
To assess the linkage between M&E digitalization and implementation of road construction projects a correlation and regression analysis were conducted.
Relationship between M&E Digitalization and Implementation of Road Construction Projects
Initially a correlation analysis to test relationship existence between the variables was done with results as follows.
There is a strong positive correlation (R = 0.689) between M&E data digitalization and implementation of Road Construction Projects, which is statistically significant (p = 0.000 < 0.05). Thus, as M&E data digitalization increase, implementation of Road Construction Projects also improves to a strong extent. Ndayambaje & Mugisha (2023) provides evidence of how digital platforms facilitate better data collection, reporting, and analysis. The use of mobile applications for real-time data collection allowed for quicker response times to emerging issues, resulting in fewer delays.
Influence of M&E Digitalization on Implementation of Road Construction Projects
With information of the existence of linkage between M&E Digitalization and Implementation of Road Construction Projects, the study proceeded with regression analysis.
An R2 value = 0.475 with p=0.000<0.05. This shows that M&E Digitalization accounts for 47.5% of implementation of road construction projects. Moreover, the model was found to be a good fit for the data and variables with F (1,151) =122.10, (p=0.000<0.05). The coefficients of the intercept (β=2.134, p=0.000<0.05) and M&E Digitalization (β=0.665, p=0.000<0.05) were statistically significant. This implies that for every unit increase in M&E Digitalization, the implementation of road construction projects improves by 0.665 units. Linearly, ?? = 2.134 + 0.665??3
Test for Hypothesis three
H03: There is no significant influence between M&E digitalization and Implementation of Road Construction Projects; was rejected (p=0.000<0.05). Thus, there is a significant influence between M&E digitalization and Implementation of Road Construction Projects.
M&E Capacity Building on Implementation of Road Construction Projects
To assess the linkage between M&E capacity building and implementation of road construction projects, a correlation and regression analysis was done.
Relationship between M&E Capacity Building and Implementation of Road Construction Projects
A correlation analysis investigated existence of relationship between variables under investigation.
There is a strong positive correlation (R = 0.732) between capacity building and implementation of Road Construction Projects, which is statistically significant (p = 0.000, p < 0.05). Thus, as M&E capacity building increases, implementation of Road Construction Projects also improves to a moderate extent. Osei and Akoto (2020) conclude that addressing the capacity-building challenges is crucial for enhancing the effectiveness of MHere's an expanded overview of the studies related to each specified objective regarding the M&E of road construction projects.
Influence of Capacity Building on Implementation of Road Construction Projects
With information of the existence of a linkage between the variables under investigation, a regression analysis followed.
An R2 value = 0.536 with p=0.000<0.05; showing that M&E Capacity Building accounts for 53.6% of implementation of road construction projects. The model was a good fit for analysis with F (1,151) =164.22, (p=0.000<0.05). The coefficients of the intercept (β=1.983, p=0.000<0.05) and M&E Capacity Building (β=0.724, p=0.000<0.05) were statistically significant. This implies that for every unit increase in M&E Capacity Building, the implementation of road construction projects improves by 0.724 units. Linearly, ?? = 1.983 + 0.724??4
Test for H othesis four
H04: There is no significant influence between M&E capacity building and Implementation of Road Construction Projects; was rejected (p=0.000<0.05). Thus, there is a significant influence between M&E capacity building significantly influences implementation of Road Construction Projects.
Influence of the Combined M&E Practices on Implementation of Road Construction projects
A simultaneous effect of M&E Practices of M&E planning, M&E Data Utilization, M&E Data Digitalization and M&E capacitybuilding were regressed against performance to obtain their combined effect.
An R2 value = 0.800 with p = 0.000<0.05; indicates that the joint M&E Practices (M&E Planning, M&E Data Utilization, M&E Digitalization and M&E Capacity Building) account for 80.0% of the variation in the Implementation of Road construction projects. This suggests a strong explanatory power of the independent variables in predicting the dependent variable. The model is found to be a good fit for analysis with F (4, 148) = 118.40 (p = 0.000<0.05). The coefficients analysis reveals that the constant term has a coefficient of ??0=1.072 (p= 0.000<0.05), which is statistically significant, representing the expected level of Implementation of Road construction projects when all M&E Practices are excluded. The M&E Planning has a coefficient of ??1 = 0.231 (p = 0.000<0.05), indicating that a unit increase in M&E Planning contributes to a 0.231-unit improvement in Implementation. Similarly, the M&E Data Utilization shows a coefficient of ??2 =0.298 (p = 0.000<0.05), suggesting that every unit increase in M&E Data Utilization leads to a 0.298 unit increase in Implementation. The M&E Digitalization has a coefficient of ??3= 0.281 (p = 0.000<0.05), implying that for each unit increase in M&E Digitalization, implementation improves by 0.281 units. Lastly, the M&E Capacity Building demonstrates the highest impact with a coefficient of ??4 = 0.320 (p = 0.000<0.05), showing that a unit increase in M&E Capacity Building results in a 0.320-unit improvement in project implementation. All variables are statistically significant, indicating their critical roles in enhancing Implementation of Road construction projects outcomes. Linearly, ?? = 1.072 + 0.231??1 + 0.298??2 + 0.281??3 + 0.320??4 + ?
The analysis reveals that all four M&E Practices significantly and positively impact the Implementation of Road construction projects. The high R2 value (0.800) demonstrates the collective importance of these M&E practices in explaining variations in implementation. Simultaneous application of all M&E practices better outcomes than implementing them individually. This finding highlights the critical role of M&E practices in achieving successful Implementation of Road construction projects outcomes.
Conclusions
On Implementation of Road Construction Projects, the study concludes that implementation of road construction projects has generally achieved above-average performance. Key factors contributing to this success include effective financial oversight, adherence to schedules, and high-quality materials and standards. While stakeholders were largely satisfied with project outcomes, some concerns about localized quality control and the need for enhanced community engagement remain, emphasizing the importance of continuous improvement in addressing feedback and expectations.
On M&E Planning, the study concludes that M&E planning is integral to the successful implementation of road construction projects. Systematic planning, clear communication of objectives, and the ability to track milestones were identified as significant contributors. However, the findings also underscore the need to strengthen risk assessment integration and ensure adequate funding for M&E activities. These areas for improvement suggest that a more robust planning framework could further enhance project outcomes. On M&E Data Utilization, the study concludes that M&E data utilization is critical in driving the success of road construction projects. Its role in real-time tracking of progress, resolving challenges, and fostering accountability through transparent data sharing was well-acknowledged. The study emphasizes the importance of effective data utilization practices in improving project efficiency, optimizing resource allocation, and enhancing collaboration among stakeholders.
On M&E Digitalization, the study concludes that digitalization has a transformative impact on implementation of road construction projects. Digital tools significantly enhance data accuracy, monitoring efficiency, and transparency, thereby streamlining the entire M&E process. This indicates that further investment in digital infrastructure could amplify these benefits and address any remaining gaps in efficiency and cost-effectiveness.
On M&E Capacity Building, the study concludes the pivotal role of M&E capacity-building initiatives in the effective implementation of road construction projects. Training programs and workshops have strengthened M&E frameworks and improved staff competencies in critical areas such as data analysis. While these initiatives are widely regarded as successful, the study suggests that continued efforts are necessary to meet the evolving expectations of stakeholders and ensure sustained project success.
In general, the study concludes that effective implementation of road construction projects is significantly influenced by robust M&E practices, including comprehensive planning, efficient data utilization, digitalization, and capacity building. These elements collectively enhance project oversight, stakeholder collaboration, and overall outcomes, highlighting the importance of continuous improvement and strategic investment in M&E frameworks to ensure sustained success in future projects.
The study recommends that, project teams should establish more inclusive community engagement strategies, Organizations should integrate more robust risk assessment frameworks into their M&E planning processes and allocate sufficient funding to M&E activities, prioritize investments in modern digital technologies and provide the necessary training for staff to maximize their utility and, Continuous professional development through workshops, training sessions, and certification programs. Further research should explore emerging technologies, such as artificial intelligence and block chain, in the context of M&E digitalization to assess their potential for enhancing transparency, accountability, and efficiency.
Acknowledgement
Author Contributions: Conceptualization, T.M.A., A.E.J.A.; Methodology, T.M.A., A.E.J.A.; Data Collection, T.M.A., A.E.J.A.; Formal Analysis, T.M.A., A.E.J.A.; Writing-Original Draft Preparation, T.M.A., A.E.J.A.; Writing-Review and Editing, T.M.A., A.E.J.A. All authors have read and agreed to the published the final version of the manuscript.
Institutional Review Board Statement: Ethical review and approval were waived for this study, due to that the research does not deal with vulnerable groups or sensitive issues.
Data Availability Statement: The data presented in this study are available on request from the corresponding author. The data are not publicly available due to privacy.
Conflicts of Interest: The authors declare no conflict of interest.
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