An Assessment of the Effects of Procurement Management on Project Performance at the Lusaka Water Supply and Sanitation Company (LWSC)

The role of effective procurement management in enhancing project performance is crucial, particularly within the context of Lusaka Water and Sanitation Company (LWSC). Despite the implementation of various projects aimed at improving water supply and sanitation, empirical evidence on the effect of procurement practices remains limited. This study assessed the effects of procurement management on project performance at LWSC. A correlational research design with a quantitative approach was employed. Data were collected through structured electronic questionnaires distributed among the procurement and project management teams at LWSC. The sample size was determined using Slovin’s formula, resulting in 60 respondents from a total population of 70. Data analysis was conducted using SPSS Version 22. The results showed that contract management positively influenced project performance (B = 0.084, β = −0.211, t = −1.441, p = 0.156), though this effect was not statistically significant. Inventory management also had a positive, but non-significant, relationship with project performance (B = 0.106, β = 0.239, t = 1.603, p = 0.116). In contrast, risk management demonstrated a significant negative effect on project performance (B = −0.290, β = −0.332, t = −2.020, p = 0.049). Based on these findings, the study recommends that LWSC strengthen training sessions for procurement managers, project managers, and team members on effective risk management practices to enable them to proactively identify, assess, and mitigate risks that could negatively impact project outcomes.