Conflict resolution in promoting effective project management: a case of Lake Turkana Wind Power project in Kenya

Abstract

The study sought to understand conflict resolution in promoting effective project management. It utilized a case of the Lake Turkana Wind Power project in Kenya. Specific study objectives included: to find out how often mediation is used in promoting effective project management; to examine how mediation promotes effective project management and to identify challenges of mediation in promoting effective project management at the LTWP project. The study employed the use of qualitative research methodology. Respondents were purposively selected from the different departments of the LTWP project. The study undertook document review of relevant materials including books, journals and credible websites. Data from in-depth interviews was analyzed using thematic analysis technique and presentation done based on emerging key study themes. Study findings indicated that mediation was a significant conflict resolution mechanism; it was largely applied in relationship and task-oriented conflicts within the LTWP project structure. Prompt resolution of conflicts using mediation ensured minimal interference in project tasks thus encouraging achievement of project objectives. In promoting effective project management, mediation facilitated transformative processes among disputants, building and restoring positive personal and working relationships that provided for collaborative teams. Despite numerous benefits in the implementation of conflict resolution, structural challenges involving interdepartmental handling of mediation thus limiting consistency and coherence in procedure were identified among other case specific challenges. The study recommends training of technical personnel in mediation to enable their intervention in task related conflicts. Additionally, capacity building in other alternative dispute mechanisms should be incorporated since different conflicts demand redress by diverse conflict resolution mechanisms.