Vol. 7, Issue 1, Part C (2025)

Project delays are a major challenge in project management, leading to extended timelines, increased costs, and resource strain. This study, Examining Causes of Project Delays in Project Management: A Case Study of Lusaka Water Supply and Drainage Project, explores delay causes, their impact, and mitigation challenges. It investigates project decision-making processes, risk management strategies, delay causes, and financial implications. Key findings identify inadequate planning (28%) and poor communication (30.67%) as significant internal contributors, while external factors include environmental issues and political instability (32% each). Delays occurred most during execution and monitoring phases (62.66%), causing cost overruns for 41.33% of respondents, impacting budgets and resources. The delays significantly affected project success, with 32% reporting a high impact and 18.67% a moderate impact on outcomes. Mitigation challenges included insufficient expertise (26.67%) and inadequate training (13.33%). Contractor delays, poor scheduling, and substandard work also hindered completion. This research provides actionable insights for improving project planning, resource allocation, and communication, contributing to best practices that minimize delays and enhance success in infrastructure projects.