QUALITY ASSURANCE AND IMPLEMENTATION OF AFFORDABLE HOUSING PROJECTS IN KENYA
Abstract
Purpose of the Study: The study examined the influence of quality assurance on the implementation of affordable housing projects in Kenya.
Statement of the Problem: The Government of Kenya has prioritized affordable housing under the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda and Vision 2030. Despite substantial investments and policy support, many affordable housing projects continue to experience implementation challenges characterized by construction defects, delays, cost overruns, and stakeholder dissatisfaction. Previous studies suggest that inadequate quality assurance systems contribute significantly to project failures in the construction sector (PMI, 2024; Kerzner, 2023). However, empirical evidence on the influence of quality assurance practices on the implementation of affordable housing projects in Kenya remains limited.
Research Methodology: The study adopted a positivist philosophy and a quantitative research design. The target population comprised project supervisors, national construction staff, contractors, and chief engineers involved in affordable housing projects that were implemented in Kenya between 2017 and 2021. A sample of 205 respondents was selected using stratified random sampling. Primary data were collected using structured questionnaires and analyzed using SPSS Version 28. Descriptive statistics and simple linear regression analysis were used to establish the relationship between quality assurance and project implementation.
Findings: The findings established that quality assurance had a positive and statistically significant influence on the implementation of affordable housing projects (β = 0.387, p < 0.001). The regression model indicated that quality assurance explained a substantial proportion of the variation in project implementation outcomes, demonstrating that projects with stronger quality assurance mechanisms achieved better completion rates, compliance levels, and stakeholder satisfaction.
Conclusion: The study concludes that quality assurance is a critical determinant of the successful implementation of affordable housing projects. Effective quality assurance systems enhance compliance with standards, improve construction quality, reduce rework, and support project success.
Recommendations: The study recommends strengthening quality assurance frameworks, enhancing routine inspections, improving compliance monitoring systems, and promoting continuous quality improvement throughout the project lifecycle.
Keywords: Quality Assurance, Affordable Housing Projects, Project Implementation, Construction Quality, Housing Development, Kenya.
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