Title: Effects Of Project Execution On Project Performance: Case Of Unicef-Assisted Child Development Projects In Mogadishu, Somalia.
Authors: Abdirisak Hassan Ibrahim, Mustafe Mahamoud Abdillahi and Joseph Tindyebwa PhD.
Volume: 10
Issue: 1
Pages: 37-48
Publication Date: 2026/01/28
Abstract:
In fragile and conflict-affected states, the relationship between project execution processes and performance outcomes is critically important yet poorly understood. This study analyzed the effects of project execution on the performance of UNICEF-assisted child development projects in Mogadishu, Somalia. A mixed-methods approach was employed, utilizing a descriptive cross-sectional design. Data were collected from 288 stakeholders via questionnaires and 20 key informants through interviews. Descriptive statistics revealed high mean scores for both project execution (Mean=3.76) and project performance (Mean=3.71) across all measured dimensions. A simple linear regression analysis established a statistically significant positive relationship (? = 0.562, p < 0.001), leading to the rejection of the null hypothesis. The model indicated that project execution explained 23% of the variance in performance. The study concluded that disciplined plan execution was a significant driver of success in this complex environment, though a larger proportion of performance variance was attributable to external contextual factors. The findings underscore the necessity of robust, yet adaptable, execution frameworks coupled with strong contextual awareness to optimize humanitarian project outcomes in volatile settings.