Factors Influencing the Implementation of Road Construction Projects in Hargeisa: Evidence from Local Government Projects
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.53819/81018102t3178Abstract
Road infrastructure development in Hargeisa, the capital city of Somaliland, faces persistent implementation challenges despite ongoing resource mobilization efforts by the Hargeisa Local Municipality. This study analyzed the effects of local politics, project leadership, and resource mobilization on the implementation of road construction projects, drawing on Resource Dependency Theory as its theoretical anchor. A quantitative, descriptive research design was employed, with data collected from 80 purposively sampled technical and administrative personnel using a structured five-point Likert scale questionnaire. The instrument demonstrated strong validity (CVI = 0.86) and reliability (Cronbach's Alpha = 0.88). Multiple linear regression analysis revealed that the three independent variables collectively explained 84.7 percent of the variance in project implementation (R² = 0.847, p < 0.001). Local politics emerged as the strongest predictor (B = 0.714, p < 0.001), followed by project leadership, which demonstrated a significant positive contribution (B = 0.264, p = 0.037). Resource mobilization, however, exhibited a significant negative relationship with project implementation (B = −0.239, p = 0.008), revealing a structural Resource Mobilization Paradox whereby increased financial inputs directed through weak institutional frameworks generate greater bureaucratic complexity and implementation delays rather than improved outcomes. The study recommends institutional reform of fund allocation processes, adoption of digital resource tracking tools, and development of governance policy frameworks that protect technical project procedures from political interference while harnessing the benefits of positive political engagement.
Keywords: Implementation, Road Construction, Projects, Hargeisa, Local Government, Projects
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