Accountability and service delivery in the donor funded projects in the ministry of agriculture, animal industry and fisheries

Abstract

The purpose of the study was to examine the relationship between accountability and service delivery in donor funded projects implemented by Ministry of Agriculture Animal Industry and Fisheries. The researcher developed a conceptual framework which guided the study. A cross–sectional survey design was carried out among 380 respondents working in projects accounts and internal auditors in the entire donor funded projects under Ministry of Agriculture Animal Industry and Fisheries. A snapshot of events was taken as the situation existed then. The development of a self-administered questionnaire to capture the constructs of accountability (Managerial, Political, Financial and Public) and service delivery was done. A sample of 103, that is 70% of respondents from a sample size of 147 employees randomly selected, was realized and considered satisfactory. The results reveal strong significant correlation between accountability (Managerial, Political, Financial and Public Accountability), predict 45% of the variance in service delivery. It can be concluded that Managerial Accountability, explains most of the variance in service delivery in relation to the magnitude of the beta coefficients in the regression statistical model. It can be recommended that there is need to strengthen managerial accountability with straightforward adherence to rules and regulations such as Standing Orders, Government Accounting Instructions, Public Assets Act 2003, Public Finance and Accountability Act 2003. This can be fostered by sensitizing staff through regular retreats, workshops and seminars for old staff and induction workshops for new staff.