Abstract:
The aim of this study was to establish the
factors influencing participation of the public in
development projects in Wote-Nziu ward in the context of
a devolved governance system. The objectives of the study
were to establish the impact of socio-economic factors,
political factors and demographic characteristics on public
participation in development projects. The study sample
was comprised 85 respondents sampled from the general
population within Wote/Nziu ward. In addition, 15 Key
informants were drawn from Project Management
Committees (PMC) and 9 focus group discussions were
with the committee members drawn from the various
projects within the ward that are initiated and implemented
by the County Government of Makueni. Analysis of the
data collected, that is, correlation between independent and
dependent variables revealed positive values of correlation
coefficients (R). The study findings revealed that
demographic characteristics, socioeconomic and political
factors influence the level of public participation in
development activities of the residents of Wote-Nziu Ward
in Makueni County. Comparatively, however, political
factors have more influence on public participation. The
study concludes that residents and the County Government
of Makueni have embraced public participation as a tool to
meaningfully engage in development initiatives in a
devolved system of governance.
