Factors influencing the success of cross-border projects in Africa: a case study of ten projects. (24th September 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Moodley, Rajeshree; Steyn, Herman; Bond-Barnard, Taryn Jane
• Is Part Of: International journal of project organisation and management. Volume 13:Number 3(2021)
• Page Start: 273
• Page End: 300
• Publication Date: 2021-09-24
• Subjects: cross-border projects -- Africa -- project success factors -- fast-moving consumer goods -- FMCG; Project management -- Periodicals; Management -- Periodicals; 658.40405
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1740-2891

Abstract

Africa's economic growth depends on direct foreign investment, primarily through global projects. However, literature on success factors for global/cross-border projects in Africa is non-existent. This paper reports on a study of ten projects, with a combined value of US$680 million, executed by a South African company in six other African countries. Best practices and success factors for cross-border projects were investigated, using a modified nominal group technique, a Delphi survey and thematic analysis. The top five success factors identified for African cross-border projects are: 1) front-end loading (FEL); 2) top management support; 3) planning, execution and control (including risk management); 4) leadership and establishing trust; 5) stakeholder satisfaction. A model of the success factors and best practices framework for African cross-border projects is proposed. The paper contributes to the development of project execution strategies to improve African cross-border project performance.