The Influence of Stakeholder Participation on the Performance of Real Estate Construction Projects in Kilimani, Nairobi City County, Kenya

This study examined the influence of stakeholder participation on the performance of real estate construction projects in Kilimani Nairobi City County, Kenya. Descriptive research design was employed in the research. The study was guided by stakeholder Theory. The target population was 480, and the sample size, 213. Questionnaires and an interview guide were used to collect quantitative data and qualitative data respectively. Statistical techniques were used to analyze quantitative data with the help of SPSS Version 28. Thematic analysis was used to analyze qualitative data. Stakeholder Participation (r = 0.539) was of great importance in improving project learning, accountability, and performance. The results reveal an overall composite mean of M = 3.17 and a standard deviation of SD = 1.22, suggesting that respondents moderately agreed that strengthening stakeholder capacity contributes to project outcomes, though perceptions varied across different aspects of participation and feedback. The results give insights to the Strong accountability mechanisms which are performance-based contracts, frequent progress updates, internal audits, and outcomes-based management which increase the authenticity. However, gaps in effectively integrating stakeholder feedback and translating participation into tangible benefits revealed the need for structured mechanisms to ensure stakeholder contributions directly enhance project performance. The study recommends that, to promote active stakeholder participation, project teams should establish clear engagement strategies throughout the project lifecycle. Structured feedback mechanisms, inclusive planning sessions, and early involvement of stakeholders can improve ownership, enhance decision-making quality, and align project outcomes with community needs. Key Words: Stakeholder, Participation, Performance, Real Estate, Construction Projects