Role of financial management practices on sustainability of education development projects in Somalia, a case of the Galkayo district

Abstract

This study investigated the role of financial management in the sustainability of education development projects in the Galkayo District, Somalia. The study objectives examined the impact of financial planning, fundraising practices, and internal control on the long-term sustainability of these projects in the Galkacyo district, Somalia. The study adopted a descriptive research design in relation to investigating the role of financial management on the sustainability of education development projects in the Galkayo district, Somalia, in which financial management served as the independent variable, determined by financial planning, fundraising practices, and internal control. The sustainability of education development projects was the dependent variable, indicated in the form of governance and institutional capacity. community socio-economic factors, political stability, and external environment. Thus, the study was based on a target population of 300, consisting of school head teachers, project education managers, and school teachers in Galkacyo district, Somalia, from which a sample size of 209 was retrieved using the Mugenda (2003) table. Data was collected using both a questionnaire and interview guide, and analyzed using both Excel and SPSS v.25. Results were presented using frequency tables, bar charts, descriptive statistics, and inferential statistics. This study recommended several policy and practical measures to improve the sustainability of education development projects in Galkayo District, Somalia. Key suggestions included implementing comprehensive financial planning with clear budgeting and monitoring frameworks, and integrating financial sustainability into project design. Projects were encouraged to diversify funding sources through government, donor, and private-sector partnerships, supported by policy guidelines on public-private partnerships. Capacity-building for project teams in financial management was considered essential, alongside promoting effective fundraising and community involvement. Strengthening internal controls and standardizing financial reporting were emphasized to enhance accountability, while promoting transparency was seen as vital to building donor trust and supporting long-term investment. This study contributed to the body of knowledge on financial management and education sustainability in fragile contexts. Specifically, it highlighted the unique financial challenges faced by education development projects in post-conflict areas like Galkayo and underscored the role of sound financial practices in sustaining project outcomes. It also provided context specific policy insights that could guide similar interventions across Somalia and other comparable settings.