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Browsing University Collection by Author "Muya, Mundia"

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    Investigating project issue factors as causes of construction contract terminations: the case of Ghana.
    (International Journal of Engineering & Technology, 2025) Coleman, Charles E.; Mwanaumo, Erastus M.; Muya, Mundia; Rahman, Rahimir A.
    This study aims to investigate and analyse the project issue factors (PIF) contributing to construction contract terminations within Ghana's construction industry. By identifying and understanding these key factors, the study seeks to provide valuable insights for stakeholders to improve project success rates, minimise disruptions, and foster sustainable growth in the sector. The research adopted a quantitative re-search approach, utilising techniques such as exploratory factor analysis (EFA) and structural equation modelling (SEM) to analyse data collected from 315 construction industry professionals in Ghana. A combination of purposive and random sampling techniques was em-ployed to ensure a diverse and representative sample, considering participants' qualifications, experience, specialisations, and employment sectors. The study's findings revealed significant project issue factors (PIF) that contribute to construction contract terminations in Ghana. Top-ranking factors include contractor refusal to work with engineer instructions, construction time delays, failure to remedy defective works, and unsuitable materials on structures. The study underscores the importance of addressing these factors through enhanced communication, robust project management practices, quality control measures, and continuous professional development. The study’s methodology and comprehensive analysis add value to the literature as it contributes to the existing body of knowledge by focusing specifically on the Ghana’s construction industryand providing empirical insights into the factors driving construction contract terminations. The recommendations have practical implications for industry stakeholders, policymakers, and professionals, guiding them in implementing strategies to mitigate project issue factors (PIF) and improve overall project outcomes, thereby fostering a conducive environment for sustainable growth in Ghana’s construction industry.Keywords:Construction Contract Terminations; Ghana’s Construction Industry; Project Issues; SEM; AMOS.
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    Preventing contract termination pitfalls in construction projects: insights from the Ghanaian construction industry.
    (Journal of civil, construction and environmental engineering, 2024) Muya, Mundia; Coleman, Charles E.; Chipulu, Chipulu
    Purpose: Premature termination of construction contracts is a recurring problem that causes financial losses, delays, and strained stakeholder relationships. However, there is limited research on the specific causes of contract termination, particularly in Ghana, and practical solutions to prevent it are often overlooked. This study aims to investigate the pitfalls of contract termination in the construction industry and to propose effective prevention strategies based on empirical data. Design/Methodology/Approach: A quantitative research approach was adopted, employing a combination of purposive and random sampling techniques to gather data from 315 participants representing diverse roles within the construction sector. A structured questionnaire based on contract termination pitfalls was used, and data analysis involved descriptive statistics, factor analysis, and structural equation modeling (SEM) techniques. Findings: The study identified several critical factors influencing contract termination, including prompt payment by clients, adherence to contractual terms, competent supervision, and effective dispute resolution mechanisms. Through factor analysis and SEM, two main constructs emerged: Proactive Contract Management Strategies (PCMS) and Contract Termination Risk Mitigation Measures (CTRMM), each comprising specific indicators crucial for preventing terminations. Originality/value: This research contributes to the existing literature by providing empirical evidence of contract termination pitfalls and effective prevention strategies within the construction industry. The study‟s multidimensional analysis approach, integrating quantitative techniques with Structural Equation Modelling (SEM), enhances the understanding of complex contractual dynamics and risk management in construction projects. Implications: The findings have practical implications for construction stakeholders, project managers, and policymakers. Implementing proactive contract management strategies such as clear payment protocols, rigorous quality control, and effective communication channels can significantly reduce contract termination risks. The study underscores the importance of integrating legal frameworks, innovative techniques, and managerial approaches in contract portfolios to enhance contract performance and project success in the construction sector. Keywords Construction Contract Termination, Termination Pitfalls, Prevention Strategies, Risk Management, SEM
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    Relationship between land tenure and land use in unplanned settlements in Lusaka, Zambia.
    (Habitat International, 2024) Haruka, Ono; Muya, Mundia
    How do land tenure and land use relate to informal settlements? Many studies have examined the effects of land regularisation on communities. Land regularisation is considered a highly effective solution for improving the residential environment in informal settlements and has been implemented in numerous developing countries. However, few studies have explored how land regularisation impacts land use in informal settlements. In this study, we investigated how residents secure land tenure and use their land in unplanned settlements in Lusaka, the capital city of Zambia, focusing on people's practices in detail. We focussed on two unplanned settlements in Lusaka: Chaisa Ward, an improvement area where land regularisation has occurred, and Chazanga Ward, a customary area where land is not being regularised. As the investigation method, we conducted interviews with community management organisations and 31 dwelling owners and an observational survey about land use in selected target sites in Chaisa and Chazanga in 2009, 2011, and 2014. The study findings showed that in informal settlements, where land tenure is secured by authorities within the community, communal regulation supported by community-based social bonds is an important element of land use management. However, official recognition of land rights through land regularisation could undermine communal relationships and communal land use regulations, resulting in a disorganised and congested living environment. Therefore, we point out that official intervention in land tenure should be institutionalised in a manner that fully understands and takes advantage of the relationships between land tenure and land use, as well as between land and people, which are well-balanced within the local context. This study demonstrated that communal regulation plays a key role in managing land use in informal settlements but its positive impact could be easily undermined by land regularisation. Thus, an important learning from this study is that land in informal settlements should be regularised in a way that fully understands and takes advantage of communal regulation of land use to ensure a desirable living environment