Implications of Elitism Dynamics on Implementation of Public Works Initiatives: The Case of Kazi Mtaani Projects in Uasin Gishu County, Kenya

Abstract

Public works programmes are widely implemented as government interventions aimed at addressing unemployment, poverty, and socioeconomic inequalities, particularly among vulnerable populations. Ideally, such initiatives should be governed by transparent, merit-based, and participatory processes that ensure equitable access to opportunities and resources. In Kenya, the Kazi Mtaani programme was introduced in April 2020 as part of the government’s COVID-19 economic recovery strategy to provide temporary employment to urban youth, improve environmental sanitation, and support low-income households. Despite these intentions, emerging reports have raised concerns regarding the influence of elitism in the implementation of the programme, including politically motivated beneficiary selection, inequitable resource allocation, and elite dominance in governance processes. These challenges have been reported in several counties, including Uasin Gishu, suggesting that elite influence may undermine the programme’s objectives. However, empirical studies examining the structural dynamics of elitism and their implications for the implementation of Kazi Mtaani remain limited. This study therefore sought to examine the implications of elitism dynamics on the implementation of Kazi Mtaani projects in Uasin Gishu County, Kenya. The study was guided by four objectives: the efficacy of elitism principles, social elitism, economic elitism, and power dynamics on the implementation of Kazi Mtaani projects. The research was anchored on Elite Theory and Stakeholder Theory, which provided a framework for understanding how power relations and stakeholder participation shape project implementation outcomes. A convergent parallel mixed-methods design was adopted. The study targeted 1,430 youth participants in the programme, employees from the Ministry of Youth and Social Welfare Services, and Members of Parliament representing the constituencies in Uasin Gishu County. A sample of 314 respondents was selected using appropriate sampling techniques. Primary data were collected through self-administered questionnaires, interviews, and focus group discussions, following a pilot study conducted in Nandi County. Instrument validity was ensured through expert review, while reliability was confirmed using Cronbach’s alpha. Quantitative data were analyzed using correlation and regression techniques, while qualitative data were analyzed thematically and presented through narratives and supporting quotations. The findings revealed that efficacy of elitism principles significantly influence the implementation of Kazi Mtaani projects. In particular, social elitism, economic elitism, and power dynamics were found to shape decision-making processes, resource allocation, governance structures, and beneficiary participation in the programme. These dynamics often resulted in unequal access to opportunities and limited participation of vulnerable youth. The study concludes that while Kazi Mtaani provides important short-term employment opportunities, elite influence can undermine equitable implementation if not adequately addressed. The study recommends strengthening transparency, accountability, and participatory governance mechanisms in public works programmes to minimize elite capture and enhance the effectiveness and sustainability of youth employment initiatives in Kenya.