Journal of Management Research and Review (JMRR) · Research article · Open access

The Influence of Knowledge Management, Total Quality Management, and Worker Competencies on Construction Project Performance in Rwanda

ISHIMWE Thierry Patrick, Ryan Jeffrey P. CURBANO, Aime Fidele Ndayiragije MVUYEKURE, Ephron HAKIZAMUNGU, IRADUKUNDA Emmanuella

10 November 2025 · Vol. 1, Issue 5, pp. 135-175

DOI: 10.65150/EP-jmrr/V1E5/2025-02

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Abstract

This study examined how Knowledge Management (KM), Total Quality Management (TQM), and Worker Competencies influence the performance of construction projects in Rwanda, with a focus on their ability to improve efficiency, quality, and sustainability. A total of 290 respondents from different construction firms were selected through stratified random sampling, and data were analyzed using a quantitative descriptive research design. The findings showed that respondents reported relatively high levels of engagement in Knowledge Management (66%, Mean = 3.36, SD = 0.753), Total Quality Management (Mean = 3.32, SD = 0.735), and Worker Competencies (Mean = 3.30, SD = 0.722). Construction project performance was also reported at a high level (Mean = 3.30, SD = 0.722), although some gaps were noted in continuous improvement practices and in addressing stakeholder conflicts. Statistical analysis revealed that Worker Competencies had the strongest positive effect on project performance (β = 0.572, p < 0.001), followed by Total Quality Management, which also showed a significant positive influence (β = 0.319, p < 0.001). Knowledge Management, while positively related, did not show a statistically significant effect (β = 0.019, p = 0.371). These results suggest that the skills, knowledge, and capabilities of workers, together with strong quality management systems, are the key drivers of successful construction projects in Rwanda. In contrast, knowledge management practices alone, although useful, do not appear to directly determine performance outcomes. The study concludes that prioritizing workforce training, leadership development, and the integration of quality assurance systems will lead to better project efficiency and sustainability. Investing in worker competencies and quality systems should therefore be seen as a strategic approach for enhancing construction project success in Rwanda.

Keywords: Construction Project Performance, Knowledge Management, Total Quality Management, Worker Competencies, Rwanda

ISHIMWE Thierry Patrick, Ryan Jeffrey P. CURBANO, Aime Fidele Ndayiragije MVUYEKURE, Ephron HAKIZAMUNGU, & IRADUKUNDA Emmanuella (2025). The Influence of Knowledge Management, Total Quality Management, and Worker Competencies on Construction Project Performance in Rwanda. Journal of Management Research and Review, 1(5), 135-175. https://doi.org/10.65150/EP-jmrr/V1E5/2025-02

@article{ISHIMWE2025,
  title   = {The Influence of Knowledge Management, Total Quality Management, and Worker Competencies on Construction Project Performance in Rwanda},
  author  = {ISHIMWE Thierry Patrick and Ryan Jeffrey P. CURBANO and Aime Fidele Ndayiragije MVUYEKURE and Ephron HAKIZAMUNGU and IRADUKUNDA Emmanuella},
  journal = {Journal of Management Research and Review},
  year    = {2025},
  volume  = {1},
  number  = {5},
  pages   = {135-175},
  doi     = {10.65150/EP-jmrr/V1E5/2025-02},
  url     = {https://doi.org/10.65150/EP-jmrr/V1E5/2025-02}
}

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