Risk management practices and performance of projects of NGOS in South Sudan. A cross-sectional case study of the Safe Network Project in AAH-1.

Abstract

Background.

Effective risk management is widely recognized as an essential determinant of project success, yet many organizations continue to experience project delays, cost overruns, and reduced quality due to inadequate risk identification, prevention, and control. This study examined the influence of risk management practices on the performance of projects implemented by AAH-1 in South Sudan.

 Methodology

The study adopted a descriptive cross-sectional study design. The study used primary data. The study employed semi-structured questionnaires to gather relevant information from a total of 136 project managers, supervisors, risk managers, construction firms, and finance officers. The data collected was then analyzed using SPSS, and the findings of the study were presented in graphs, pie charts, and tables.

 Results.

The respondents were predominantly adults above 30 years (74%), with 67.5% holding a bachelor’s degree. Risk prevention was found to be highly impactful, with 87% reporting that preventive measures substantially enhanced performance. Risk control practices had a similarly strong effect, with 76% affirming their major contribution. Risk retention strategies, including self-insurance and the use of alternative plans, were also positively associated with timely project completion. Regression results showed a strong correlation (R = 0.819) and revealed that risk prevention, risk control, and risk assessment significantly predicted project performance (p < 0.05). The model explained 84.9% of the variation in project performance.

 Conclusion 

The study established that risk prevention significantly affected project performance. Risk prevention is embraced among organizations executing projects in AAH-1, South.

 Recommendations 

The management of the projects needs to ensure that the risk management practices are integrated into project implementation. Most of the practices were in place but were not effectively employed to ensure peak performance.