PROJECT MANAGEMENT PRACTICES AND PERFORMANCE OF SELECTED INDEPENDENT FEATURE FILM PROJECTS IN KENYA

The performance of independent feature film projects in Kenya remains a persistent challenge despite government interventions and industry growth initiatives. This study examined how project management practices specifically planning, stakeholder management, and monitoring influence the performance of selected independent feature film projects in Kenya, measured through timely completion, cost efficiency, and profitability. The problem stems from inadequate application of structured management approaches, with over 50% of Kenya's 500 annual film projects performing poorly. The study was guided by three specific objectives: to examine the influence of planning, assess stakeholder management impact, and determine monitoring's effect on project performance. Theoretically, the research was underpinned by the Theory of Constraints, Stakeholder Theory, and Contingency Theory, providing frameworks for understanding bottlenecks, stakeholder engagement, and context-specific management approaches. A descriptive research design was employed, targeting 79 independent feature films classified in 2022/2023. Using stratified and purposive sampling, 44 respondents comprising producers, directors, and finance managers participated. Data were collected through structured questionnaires and analyzed using SPSS 20.0, applying descriptive statistics and multiple regression analysis. The findings revealed that planning significantly and positively influenced performance (β=0.241, p=0.048), emerging as the strongest predictor. However, essential planning tools remained underutilized. Stakeholder management showed positive but statistically non-significant effects (β=0.056, p=0.435) due to weak implementation. Monitoring demonstrated positive and near-significant influence (β=0.140, p=0.052), though systematic application was insufficient. Collectively, these practices explained 30.1% of performance variation. The study concludes that strengthening project management practices can substantially improve independent film project outcomes. Key recommendations include adopting structured planning templates, enhancing early stakeholder identification and participation, and implementing comprehensive monitoring frameworks with regular progress reporting. Future research should explore additional factors including risk management, technology adoption, and comparative African film industry studies.