Abstract: This study examined the influence of stakeholder engagement on the performance of Early Childhood Development (ECD) projects implemented by Solace Ministries in Gasabo District, Rwanda. Specifically, it assessed the effects of communication mechanisms, stakeholder capacity, and participation opportunities on project performance. Guided by Systems Theory and Stakeholder Theory, the study adopted a descriptive research design and a mixed-methods approach. A sample of 133 respondents was drawn from a target population of 199 project officers, local leaders, and beneficiaries using simple random and purposive sampling techniques. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation, and multiple regression analysis with MS Excel and SPSS, while qualitative data were analyzed thematically.
The findings revealed that all three dimensions of stakeholder engagement significantly influenced ECD project performance. Communication mechanisms demonstrated a strong positive relationship with project performance (r = 0.880, β = 0.901, p < 0.001). Similarly, stakeholder capacity exhibited a strong positive effect (r = 0.901, β = 0.901, p < 0.001), while participation opportunities showed the strongest positive relationship (r = 0.929, β = 0.773, p < 0.001). The regression model (R = 0.931, R² = 0.866) indicated that stakeholder engagement variables jointly explained 86.6% of the variation in ECD project performance. The study concludes that stakeholder engagement is a critical determinant of ECD project performance. Effective communication enhances coordination, transparency, and trust among stakeholders; capacity building improves stakeholders' knowledge and competencies for effective project implementation; and inclusive participation fosters ownership, accountability, and long-term project sustainability. The study recommends that Solace Ministries and similar organizations institutionalize structured communication systems, continuous stakeholder capacity-building programs, and inclusive participation mechanisms throughout the project cycle. Policymakers should integrate stakeholder engagement standards into ECD and community development policies to strengthen project effectiveness and sustainability. Future research should examine the moderating effects of factors such as leadership, organizational culture, and resource availability, and employ comparative or longitudinal designs to validate these findings across different organizational and geographical contexts.
Keywords: Stakeholder Engagement, Early Childhood, Project, Solace Ministries, Gasabo District.
Title: Stakeholder Engagement and Performance of Early Childhood Development Project Implemented by Solace Ministries in Gasabo District, Rwanda
Author: Mukaruzima Jeannette, Dr. Martin Kimemia Gathiru
International Journal of Management and Commerce Innovations
ISSN 2348-7585 (Online)
Vol. 14, Issue 1, April 2026 - September 2026
Page No: 629-644
Research Publish Journals
Website: www.researchpublish.com
Published Date: 06-July-2026
