Stakeholder participation in project performance: Insights from Uganda’s Youth Livelihood Programme

Abstract

Background: Community participation is increasingly highlighted in policy discussions as essential for the effectiveness and sustainability of government-led socio-economic initiatives. However, in many developing countries, including Uganda, communities are often excluded from key phases such as planning, budgeting and implementation, leading to diminished project ownership and poor outcomes.
Aim: The study aims to evaluate how stakeholder participation influences the success of the Youth Livelihood Programme (YLP), with a specific focus on participatory planning, budgeting and implementation.
Setting: The research was conducted in Luuka District, Uganda, where the YLP has faced various challenges since its launch in 2013.
Methods: A descriptive research design was employed, integrating both qualitative and quantitative data. Data collection included self-administered questionnaires, semi-structured interviews and a review of relevant literature to capture stakeholder perspectives on programme performance.
Results: The findings indicate that stakeholder participation in planning and budgeting had minimal impact on overall programme success. In contrast, active participation during the implementation phase positively influenced project outcomes, highlighting the significance of community involvement in ensuring effective delivery.
Conclusion: The study concludes that while there is a need to improve participatory practices in planning and budgeting, fostering active community involvement in the implementation phase is crucial for achieving better project outcomes and sustainability.
Contribution: This study provides empirical evidence on the role of stakeholder participation in enhancing the performance of development programmes. It underscores the need for policy reforms to strengthen participatory mechanisms in government initiatives, offering practical insights for improving programme sustainability in similar socio-economic contexts.