STAKEHOLDER ENGAGEMENT AND PROJECT PERFORMANCE OF ROAD INFRASTRUCTURE PROJECTS IN CENTRAL EQUATORIA STATE, SOUTH SUDAN

Objective: This study sought to establish the relationship between stakeholder engagement practices and the performance of road infrastructure projects in Central Equatoria State, South Sudan.   Theoretical Framework: The key stakeholder engagement practices explored in this study included stakeholder identification and mapping, communication, feedback mechanisms, involvement in decision-making, and conflict resolution while project performance was evaluated in terms of schedule adherence, cost efficiency, and quality outcomes. This study will be anchored on three theories namely; stakeholder theory, resource dependency theory, and social exchange theory.   Method: The study adopted a descriptive research design where stratified random sampling techniques was used to collect data from 58 respondents drawn from various stakeholder categories, including project managers, engineers, contractors, government officials and community members. Data was collected using structured questionnaires and analyzed using both descriptive and inferential statistics. Inferial statistics involved multiple regression analysis that assessed the relationships between stakeholder engagement practices and project performance.   Results and Discussion: The results indicated that communication and stakeholder identification had the strongest positive influence on project performance, while feedback mechanisms, decision-making involvement, and conflict resolution also contributed but to a lesser degree. Challenges such as resource limitations, diverse stakeholder interests, and inconsistent feedback collection processes were identified as barriers to effective engagement..   Research Implications: The study concluded that structured and inclusive stakeholder engagement strategies are essential for enhancing project outcomes. The study recommended the adoption of digital tools, regular stakeholder training, and culturally adaptive engagement practices.   Originality/Value: The study helps project managers to appreciate various dynamics of stakeholder engagement and project performance in resource-constrained and conflict-affected road infrastructure projects. Equally, policy makers benefit when designing and implementing policies that enhance stakeholder engagement for effective project outcomes. Therefore, future studies can refine and expand literature on stakeholder management and project performance.