Investigation of value of money among public infrastructure projects. a case of road construction sector in Kampala

Abstract

This study aimed at examining value for money among public infrastructure in reference roads in Kampala. The study was premised on three objectives; to assess the economic feasibility of road infrastructure projects in Kampala, to evaluate the efficiency of road construction and maintenance processes in Kampala, and to examine the effectiveness of road infrastructure projects in Kampala in achieving their intended objectives. The study employed a cross-sectional and descriptive research with a quantitative study approach which involved collecting numerical data from 85 respondents out of a sample of 108 KCCA staff in the infrastructure department, using a survey questionnaire. Data were analyzed using the statistical package for social science (SSPS Version 27). The study found that procurement practices in Kampala's road infrastructure projects are highly cost-focused (mean = 4.33), ensuring financial transparency and competitive bidding while promoting efficient fund utilization (mean = 4.00). Additionally, effective machinery use (mean = 3.43) and regular maintenance (mean = 3.57) contribute to infrastructure sustainability, although challenges persist in workforce coordination (mean = 3.21) and resource management (mean = 3.12). Therefore, the study commends improving project scheduling, coordination, workforce management, procurement, cost-benefit analysis, performance-based contracts, and stakeholder engagement to improve road infrastructure delivery. It emphasizes centralized project management tools, clear roles, and synchronized execution strategies. It also suggests enhancing workforce management, reducing waste, and implementing transparent procedures. Performance-based contracts and milestone tracking systems are also recommended. Post-completion, formal feedback mechanisms should be established to enhance stakeholder engagement, improve infrastructure design responsiveness, and ensure continued road use.

Subject keywords: Value of money; Public infrastructure projects; Road construction sector; Kampala