EFFECTS OF PROJECT MANAGEMENT PRACTICES ON THE PERFORMANCE OF PUBLIC PROJECTS IN TANZANIA

This study assessed the effect of project management practices on the performance of public projects in Tanzania. The study employed a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative surveys and qualitative interviews with project managers, government officials, and other stakeholders across selected public projects. A total of 80 respondents participated in the survey. Study findings revealed that project management practices such as planning, monitoring, and stakeholder engagement were found to improve performance, though implementation challenges, including weak risk management and insufficient capacity building, hindered their full effectiveness. Conversely, the adoption of modern practices, including digital tools and Agile methodologies, was positively perceived as enhancing efficiency, transparency, and accountability, yet barriers such as limited technical skills and financial constraints were evident. The study concludes that while Tanzanian policy frameworks and project management practices provide a foundation for public project performance, their effectiveness is curtailed by frequent policy revisions, weak enforcement, limited stakeholder engagement, and inconsistent adoption of modern tools. The study recommends strengthening policy enforcement, institutionalizing capacity-building programs, promoting stakeholder participation, and adopting cost-effective digital solutions will enhance project efficiency and sustainability. This study contributes to the understanding of the interplay between policy, project management practices, and stakeholder dynamics, offering actionable insights for improving the planning, execution, and sustainability of public infrastructure projects in Tanzania.