Stakeholder participation in Rural Electrification Agency (REA) projects in Uganda : a case study of Olio Sub-County, Serere District, Uganda

Abstract

This study sought to assess stakeholder participation in Rural Electrification Agency (REA) projects in Olio Sub County, Serere District, Uganda. Specific objectives of the study were; to assess the role of stakeholders in rural electrification projects in Olio Sub county, to examine factors that may hinder effectiveness of stakeholder participation in Rural Electrification Projects in Olio Sub county and to suggest strategies to improve stakeholder participation and ensure timely project completion. The study employed a descriptive research design. The sample size was 359 respondents comprised of community members from Akoboi, Kakus and Osuguro parishes in Olio Sub county, Serere district. The respondents were selected using stratified random sampling technique, and data was analyzed according to the research questions. According to study findings, the role played by community members included generating ideas about the extension of electricity to their areas, holding consultations with project leadership, regular communication with project management and monitoring activities of the REA projects. Findings also revealed that few community members were involved in needs assessment, collection of data about REA activities and assessment of REA project activities. Findings further revealed that factors that may affect community participation include; insufficient communication between project leaders and project affected persons, failure to identify relevant project stakeholders like project affected persons and lack of stakeholder involvement in project meetings. Strategies to improve community participation include; efficient communication between project leaders and stakeholders, awareness creation, involvement of cultural leaders and effecting compensation to all project affected persons.