Thesis:

Effect of project management practices on self-help group project performance in Hargeisa Somaliland

Most of the women found in urban-rural informal settlements of Hargeisa District are engaged in self-help group projects since most of them fail to qualify to access credit facilities from commercial banks and microfinance institutions. The main problem with development projects is that they are poorly managed and this affects their implementation effectiveness and efficiency. The purpose of the study was to assess the effect of project risk management, monitoring and evaluation, stakeholder involvement, and effective project planning on the performance of SHG projects in the Hargeisa district. These are projects implemented by the Network against Female Genital Mutilation in Somaliland (NAFIS) through its member organizations in v particular Somaliland Women’s Research and Action Group (SOWRAG). The study solicited data from the NAFIS staff working with SHG groups such as the MEAL and Project officers, SHG leadership, and members. A mixed method comprising quantitative and qualitative techniques was employed in the collection and analysis of data so that they allow the achievement of different objectives to cover the weaknesses of each technique. This method was suitable for this study because first, it addresses the need to study women in complex socioeconomic and political phenomena landscape. To enhance the effectiveness of SHG projects in Hargeisa, this study offers key policy recommendations: Strengthen Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E): Establish robust M&E frameworks with continuous capacity-building for project officers and SHG leadership. This will ensure adaptive project management and improved performance. Institutionalize Risk Management: Integrate systematic risk management practices at all project stages, supported by training and resource allocation to mitigate risks and safeguard project sustainability. Enhance Stakeholder Involvement: Foster active participation of SHG members, local authorities, and civil society organizations to create ownership, improve transparency, and address community-specific needs. Improve Project Planning: Encourage comprehensive project planning processes that are participatory and evidence. The study contributes to existing knowledge by providing a comprehensive analysis of factors influencing the performance of selfhelp group (SHG) projects in urban-rural informal settlements in Hargeisa, Somaliland. It highlights the critical role of monitoring and evaluation, project risk management, stakeholder involvement, and effective project planning in enhancing project success. The study expands on the limited research available on SHG projects in Somaliland, offering evidence-based insights that can guide policymakers, development organizations, and SHG practitioners in improving project management practices. Additionally, it bridges a knowledge gap on the application of mixed methods in assessing women-led development initiatives in complex socio-economic settings.