Opoku, R A (2026) Antecedents of construction project time overrun in ghana's public sector: The moderating role of political connection. International Journal of Construction Management, 26(4), pp. 537-560. ISSN 1562-3599
Abstract
This study investigates the causes of time overruns in construction projects within Ghana's public sector, with political connections as a moderating factor. Data from a sample of 325 professionals were analyzed using partial least square (PLS)-structural equation modeling (SEM). Four key constructs—client-related, consultant-related, contractor-related, and external factors—were identified as significant contributors to project delays. Political connections moderated the relationships between consultant- and contractor-related factors and project time overruns, highlighting the socio-political complexities in Ghana's construction industry. The findings extend contingency theory by demonstrating the critical role of political, institutional, and contextual variables in project management. Practical implications emphasize institutional reforms, capacity building, and the need for transparent procurement processes to mitigate delays. This study provides a foundation for addressing construction inefficiencies in sub-Saharan Africa and informs strategies for managing socio-political influences on project timelines.
| Item Type: | Article |
|---|---|
| Uncontrolled Keywords: | construction delays; contingency theory; Ghana; political connections; project management; public sector; time overruns |
| Index terms: | strategy, structural equation modelling, Sub-Saharan Africa, procurement process, complexity, project delay, partial least square, construction project, construction delay, capacity building, Ghana, public sector, time overrun, project management, construction industry, contingency theory |
| Subjects: | contractual arrangements, physical geography and landforms, production management, Geography, social and economic development, management, project management theory and practice, project controls, sociology, administrative law, industry analysis, systems engineering, statistical analysis |
| Topics: | Time Control, Organizational Design, Human Resources, Business Strategy, Research Practice, Legal Issues, Procurement, Engineering Principles, Project Management, Geographical Context |
| Descriptive scope: | 4 PCTA |
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