Abstract: This study examined the effect of stakeholder engagement on the sustainability of National Irrigation Authority projects in Wajir County. Despite significant investment in water projects, many projects in the county remain unsustainable, non-functional, or abandoned, limiting access to reliable water supply for over 70% of residents between 2020 and 2025. The study specifically investigated the influence of stakeholder training, decision-making processes, stakeholder communication, and stakeholder participation in leadership on project sustainability. The research was guided by Agency Theory and Stakeholder Theory and adopted a descriptive research design. Data were collected using semi-structured questionnaires from a sample of 353 respondents selected through cluster sampling from a target population of 3,000 community members. Descriptive and inferential statistics, including Pearson correlation and multiple regression analysis, were used to analyze the data. The findings revealed that stakeholder training, decision-making processes, stakeholder communication, and stakeholder participation in leadership all had a statistically significant positive effect on the sustainability of National Irrigation Authority projects (p < 0.05). The study concludes that effective stakeholder engagement enhances project sustainability through improved participation, communication, leadership, and decision-making. The study recommends the establishment of effective stakeholder training programs, inclusive decision-making mechanisms, strong communication strategies, and visionary leadership practices to improve the long-term sustainability and performance of water projects in Wajir County, Kenya.
Keywords: Stakeholder engagement; Project sustainability; Irrigation projects; Decision-making process; Community participation.
Title: Stakeholders Participation and Sustainability of National Irrigation Authority Projects in Wajir County, Kenya
Author: Jonam Mwandembo Mzera, Lydiah Gachengo
International Journal of Management and Commerce Innovations
ISSN 2348-7585 (Online)
Vol. 14, Issue 1, April 2026 - September 2026
Page No: 536-547
Research Publish Journals
Website: www.researchpublish.com
Published Date: 10-June-2026
