Title: Factors influencing the success of cross-border projects in Africa: a case study of ten projects

Authors: Rajeshree Moodley; Herman Steyn; Taryn Jane Bond-Barnard

Addresses: Department of Engineering and Technology Management, University of Pretoria, Engineering 2 Building, Lynnwood Road, Hatfield, 0028, Pretoria, South Africa ' Department of Engineering and Technology Management, University of Pretoria, Engineering 2 Building, Lynnwood Road, Hatfield, 0028, Pretoria, South Africa ' Department of Engineering and Technology Management, University of Pretoria, Engineering 2 Building, Lynnwood Road, Hatfield, 0028, Pretoria, South Africa

Abstract: Africa's economic growth depends on direct foreign investment, primarily through global projects. However, literature on success factors for global/cross-border projects in Africa is non-existent. This paper reports on a study of ten projects, with a combined value of US$680 million, executed by a South African company in six other African countries. Best practices and success factors for cross-border projects were investigated, using a modified nominal group technique, a Delphi survey and thematic analysis. The top five success factors identified for African cross-border projects are: 1) front-end loading (FEL); 2) top management support; 3) planning, execution and control (including risk management); 4) leadership and establishing trust; 5) stakeholder satisfaction. A model of the success factors and best practices framework for African cross-border projects is proposed. The paper contributes to the development of project execution strategies to improve African cross-border project performance.

Keywords: cross-border projects; Africa; project success factors; fast-moving consumer goods; FMCG.

DOI: 10.1504/IJPOM.2021.117942

International Journal of Project Organisation and Management, 2021 Vol.13 No.3, pp.273 - 300

Received: 07 Dec 2019
Accepted: 28 May 2020
Published online: 05 Oct 2021 *

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