Volume 5 Issue 1

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ASSESSING THE EFFECT OF EMPLOYEE TRAINING ON PRODUCTIVITY: PERSPECTIVES FROM NANDI COUNTY GOVERNMENT, KENYA
(management university of africa, 2024-11) Sisey Kipketer Jacob; Moses Leseiyo
Following the enactment of the Kenyan constitution in 2010 and subsequent to the 2013 general election, employees transitioned from other sectors of the economy, including well-established organizations, to join the workforce of County Governments. This shift was driven by perceived competitive compensation packages and improved terms of engagement. There was an anticipation that this influx of talent would lead to an exceptional standard of service delivery, effectiveness and productivity among employees. However, contrary to these expectations, several studies have highlighted the poor performance of employees in various County Governments. The purpose of this study was to assess the effect of training on employee productivity in Nandi County Government. This study was guided by the expectancy theory and resource-based view theory. The research employed a mixed methods research design and was conducted in Nandi County, targeting the 4,234 employees of the Nandi County Government. The Yamane (1973) formula was used to determine a sample size of 365. Structured questionnaires were administered to the respondents, and a pilot study was conducted at Kericho County Government with a random sample of 37 respondents selected. The analysis of data was done through the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS Version 28), which included the computation and presentation of descriptive statistics. Inferential statistics were applied to reveal the relationships between the variables, with data presented through graphs and tables. Findings showed a positive and significant effect of training on employee productivity in Nandi County government (β = 0.494, p = 0.000). This study concludes that training programs is important in employee satisfaction and performance. In view of the findings, the study recommends that the Nandi County Government should prioritize and enhance the relevance of training programs for employees.
ASSESSING THE IMPACT OF FUNCTIONAL INTEGRATION ON PUBLIC PROCUREMENT PERFORMANCE: A CASE STUDY OF EMBU COUNTY GOVERNMENT, KENYA
(management university of africa, 2024-11) Mwaniki Dickson Karani; Dr. James Mwikya
This study investigates the impact of functional integration on public procurement performance in public institutions in Kenya, focusing on the County Government of Embu. Despite efforts to implement technological infrastructure such as e-procurement systems, adoption has been slow and inconsistent across counties, limiting efficiency in procurement processes. The study employs a descriptive research design, surveying 300 employees across various departments to assess how budgetary allocation, staff competence, top management support, and IT infrastructure influence procurement outcomes. Data analysis, performed using SPSS, revealed a significant correlation between functional integration and improved procurement performance, showing that enhanced IT infrastructure and management support lead to better resource utilization, transparency, and accountability. Recommendations include prioritizing investment in advanced IT systems, regular staff training, and fostering active top management involvement in procurement practices for better service deliver.
DECISION-MAKING STYLES AND ORGANIZATIONAL PERFORMANCE IN NAIROBI COUNTY
(management university of africa, 2025-11) Ngaywa, C. M. K; David Kanyanjua
The performance of an organization is defined by how effectively it achieves its objectives and goals while making efficient use of its resources. It reflects a company’s success, encompassing financial results, operational efficiency, customer satisfaction, and employee engagement. In the context of a rapidly changing business environment, maintaining high performance requires solid decision-making, strategic leadership, and a supportive organizational culture. This study explores the impact of decision-making styles on organizational performance within Nairobi City County, emphasizing the need for effective strategic leadership in today’s dynamic business environment. It highlights how decision-making processes, influenced by cognitive abilities and environmental factors, play a pivotal role in aligning organizational goals with managerial choices. The research employs descriptive methodology to examine a target population of 180 personnel across various departments, utilizing structured questionnaires to gather data efficiently. The analysis reveals a significant relationship between decision-making styles—specifically democratic and coaching approaches and improved organizational performance. With a regression coefficient of 0.320 for decision-making styles, the findings indicate that enhanced decision-making correlates with increased productivity, efficiency, and employee engagement. Notably, the democratic style fosters collaboration and open communication, while coaching emphasizes personal development, thereby enabling employees to reach their potential. These results support existing literature that underscores the benefits of participative leadership. The study advocates for institutionalizing democratic and coaching decision-making styles through training programs and feedback mechanisms to cultivate an inclusive, high-performing organizational culture. Ultimately, the insights derived from this research aim to provide a framework for improved governance and service delivery in Nairobi City County, contributing to the broader understanding of effective management practices in public organizations.
DETERMINANTS OF ORGANIZATIONAL PRODUCTIVITY IN PUBLIC INSTITUTIONS IN KENYA: A CASE STUDY OF KIRINYAGA COUNTY GOVERNMENT
(management university of africa, 2024-11) Evalyne Wanjiru Mwangi; Ms. Gladys Mabonga
This study examined the determinants of organizational productivity in public institutions in Kenya, focusing on the Kirinyaga County Government. The specific objectives were to assess how working conditions and staff development impact productivity within the County government of Kirinyaga. Anchored by Equity Theory, the study provided a foundational framework for examining organizational dynamics and their impact on productivity within public institutions like the Kirinyaga County Government. A descriptive research design targeted the 2300 employees of Kirinyaga County, using a stratified sampling technique to ensure representative sampling. Data was collected via questionnaires containing both open and closed questions. Analysis was conducted using SPSS, presenting data through descriptive statistics, including frequencies and percentages, to provide context and insights into the findings. The findings showed that working conditions significantly influence productivity, with a mean score of 4.03 and an ANOVA F-value of 14.236 (p = 0.000), and a regression coefficient of 0.534. Staff development also showed a significant impact, with a mean of 4.02, an F-value of 12.367 (p = 0.000), and a regression coefficient of 0.482. The study concluded that working conditions and staff development are all significant determinants of productivity within the Kirinyaga County Government. These factors collectively foster a productive work environment and align with the Equity Theory, suggesting that when employees perceive fairness and support in their work environment, they are more productive. It is recommended that the Kirinyaga County Government focus on improving workplace conditions by providing necessary resources and creating a supportive environment. Enhanced training and mentorship programs are also suggested to advance staff development. Competitive remuneration policies should be implemented to maintain motivation, while organizational structures should be streamlined to empower employees and promote collaboration. These improvements are likely to increase productivity, contributing to the effectiveness of the County Government.
EARLY WARNING SYSTEM AND DROUGHT RESPONSE IN KENYA. A CASE STUDY OF BARINGO COUNTY GOVERNMENT
(management university of africa, 2024-11) Sang Leah; Dr. Angeline Wambugu
Baringo County, Kenya, grapples with the profound challenges presented by recurrent drought, which threatens water resources, agricultural productivity, food security, and socio-economic stability. The main focus of this study was to assess the drought early warning information system on effective response in Baringo County Government, Kenya. The study was guided by the following specific objectives; to examine the effect of monitoring and early warning, preparedness and planning, response and mitigation, recovery and rehabilitation and evaluation and learning on effective drought response by Baringo County Government, Kenya. This study was guided by diffusion of innovation theory, resource dependence theory, contingency theory and organizational learning theory. This study used a cross-sectional survey design. This study targeted 59 officials from Directorate of Disaster Management in Baringo County Government. Census sampling technique was adopted. Therefore, the sample size for the study was 59 respondents. Data was collected using a self-administered semi-structured questionnaire. Piloting was done on 5 individuals representing 10% of study sample and was selected randomly from the target population and excluded from the final study. The data collected from the pilot group was used to test for validity and reliability of the questionnaire. Data obtained from the field was coded, cleaned, and entered into the computer for analysis using the SPSS version 28. Descriptive statistical included frequency, percentages, mean and standard deviation. Inferential statistical analysis used was multiple regression and correlation analysis. The significant of each independent variable was tested at a confidence level of 95%. The study's findings, based on the beta coefficients from the multiple regression analysis, revealed that monitoring and early warning (β = 0.189, p < 0.05), preparedness and planning (β = 0.218, p < 0.05), response and mitigation (β = 0.156, p < 0.05), recovery and rehabilitation (β = 0.279, p < 0.05), and evaluation and learning (β = 0.303, p < 0.05) all positively and significantly influence the effectiveness of drought response by Baringo County Government, Kenya. It is concluded that Baringo County's drought management can be significantly improved by enhancing each of these areas. The study recommends that the county invest in advanced monitoring technologies, regularly update response plans with stakeholder input, integrate traditional and modern response techniques, prioritize sustainable recovery initiatives, and establish strong feedback and knowledge-sharing mechanisms.
EFFECT OF HUMAN RESOURCE CAPABILITIES ON PERFORMANCE OF COMMUNITY EMPOWERMENT PROJECTS IN KWALE COUNTY, KENYA
(management university of africa, 2024-11) Kombo Josephat Chirema; Dr. Juster G. Nyaga
This study examined the effect of financial resources on the performance of community empowerment projects in Kwale County, Kenya. A descriptive research design was used with a target of 133 community empowerment projects within Kwale County. The variable relationship was determined through a regression model. The target population comprised 133 community empowerment projects in Kwale County, categorized into various programs including crop development, livestock production, fisheries, and community loaning projects. Stratified random sampling was employed) and a sample size of 67, representing 50% of the target population, was selected. The study found that human resource capabilities significantly influence the success of community empowerment projects, with an average score of 3.76 and a standard deviation of 1.4244. Regression analysis revealed that a one-unit increase in human resource capabilities accounts for 43.1% of the variance in project performance, indicating a strong relationship (R = 0.595, R² = 0.431) and a significant impact on effectiveness (F = 56.864, p < 0.05). The results suggest that enhancing human resource capabilities can substantially improve community empowerment initiatives in Kwale County, with a statistically significant increase in performance correlating with a mean index rise of 0.644 points (t = 7.480). Supporting literature corroborates these findings, highlighting that strategic human resource management practices and staff competencies positively affect project outcomes, thereby providing a competitive edge and optimizing organizational performance. The proficiency and expertise of project staff and volunteers are crucial for effective project implementation, as well-trained personnel can manage resources, design interventions, and adapt to challenges effectively. Projects with strong human resource capabilities are more likely to achieve their objectives and deliver meaningful outcomes, while also facilitating capacity building and knowledge transfer within the community. Skilled leaders and trainers empower local individuals with the necessary skills for sustaining and expanding initiatives, enhancing local ownership and improving the likelihood of long-term success. Kwale County should implement targeted recruitment strategies to attract skilled individuals with relevant experience by offering competitive compensation and incentives. Additionally, creating supportive work environments and career development opportunities will help retain experienced staff and volunteers through performance-based incentives and recognition programs.
EFFECT OF IDEALIZED INFLUENCE ON CHANGE MANAGEMENT IN PUBLIC UNIVERSITIES IN KENYA
(management university of africa, 2024-11) Humphrey Kirimi Ireri; Dr. Angeline Wambui Wambugu
Public universities in Kenya experience frequent leadership transitions due to the contractual nature of top management positions, typically occurring every five years. These changes often introduce varying leadership styles and operational approaches, posing challenges for organizational stability and effective change management. This study assessed the effect of idealized influence, a key dimension of transformational leadership, on change management in public Universities in Kenya. The study is anchored on the Transformational-Transactional Theory and also draws from ADKAR change model, and Kotter’s Eight Step Change Model to explore how leadership practices affect change management. A descriptive survey research design was adopted, with a study population comprising 669 staff members from Chuka University. A stratified random sampling technique yielded a sample of 215 respondents, and primary data was gathered using questionnaires. The findings from regression analysis indicated that idealized influence significantly and positively affects change management in public universities in Kenya. The study concluded that leaders who exhibit idealized influence through integrity, vision, and strong values are pivotal in facilitating successful organizational change. Consequently, public universities are encouraged to prioritize leadership development, focusing on idealized influence to enhance change management processes. Further research is suggested to explore the long-term effects of idealized influence on innovation, staff creativity, and overall organizational performance within the context of change management.
EFFECT OF PROJECT PLANNING ON THE SUCCESS OF WATER PANS PROJECT IN ELGEYO MARAKWET COUNTY
(management university of africa, 2025-11) Eunice Wambui Mwangi; Dr. Nyaga G. Juster
In rural communities, development projects are vital for addressing social, economic, and environmental challenges. Effective project management techniques significantly influence the success of these initiatives. This research aimed to assess how various project management methods contribute to achieving development goals, focusing on water projects in Elgeyo Marakwet County. The study's specific objectives included examining project planning, risk management, public involvement, monitoring, and evaluation to the success of water pan projects. Utilizing three theoretical frameworks—program theory, results-based management theory, and participative theory—the study targeted seven completed water pan projects and employed a descriptive research approach. A total of 479 respondents were analyzed, including county employees, community leaders, and chairs of community water project committees. Stratified and random sampling techniques determined a sample size of 217 respondents. Primary data werecollected through a semi-structured questionnaire, which underwent pilot testing for validity and reliability. Data analysis utilized descriptive and inferential statistics via SPSS software. Results indicated that project planning influences the success of water pan projects (β = .567; p < 0.05). These findings suggest that enhancing project planning processes and risk management strategies is essential for achieving project goals and ensuring community satisfaction. Additionally, involving more stakeholders in monitoring processes can improve project outcomes.
EMOTIONAL INTELLIGENCE AND TURNOVER INTENTIONS AMONG TEACHING STAFF IN KENYAN PRIVATE UNIVERSITIES
(management university of africa, 2024-11) Selina N Makokha; Dr. Nyaga G. Juster
In Kenya, universities are relied upon by the society to create, conserve and disseminate knowledge which is in realization of sustainable development. Teaching staff are the key staff who play this role. Unfortunately, due to various challenges, universities especially private ones find it difficult to attract and retain these staff. Teaching staff attrition rates vary widely between developed and developing countries. On the other hand, emotional intelligence has recently gained a lot of interest among scholars and practitioners due to the fact that it can solve multiple problems at the workplace producing a motivated and productive workforce. The main objective of this study is to determine the influence of Emotional Intelligence on turnover intentions among teaching staff in Kenyan private Universities. The study was anchored on mixed theory of emotional intelligence. This research is based on the examination of empirical evidence from secondary data such as literature, statistics, publications and surveys. The findings implied that emotional intelligence affected motivation and job performance of teaching staff and contributes openly through self-awareness, self-management, social - awareness and relationship – management. In conclusion employees who can manage their emotions and build relationships are more productive and successful at work than those with low levels of emotional intelligence. The later also experience career derailment. Emotional intelligence can be learnt and developed. In view of these findings, this study recommends the need for emotional intelligence to be nurtured in private universities in Kenya so as to enable these institutions attract and retain teaching staff.
INDIGENOUS LEAFY VEGETABLES AND SUSTAINABILITY OF RURAL ECONOMIES OF ELGEYO-MARAKWET COUNTY IN KENYA
(management university of africa, 2024-11) Elizabeth Chemeli Kiprono; Dr. Domeniter Naomi Kathula
The study investigates the contribution of Indigenous Leafy Vegetables to food sustainability and rural economies in Elgeyo-Marakwet County, Kenya. The specific objectives were to assess the contribution of ILVs in sustainable food systems and explore their role in strengthening rural economic resilience. Anchored on Agroecology Theory, the study actually aimed at 320 members of both the Marakwet and Senger communities through the application of purposive sampling targeted at those households engaging in ILV farming and trade. Data were collected using semi structured questionnaires, describing the role of ILV in sustaining agriculture and income stability among rural dwellers. Findings indicate that ILVs are one of the most nutritious foods contributing to food sustainability and rural economic stability, as they require less input to produce and are perfectly adapted to local agroecological practices. However, poor market access and inadequate infrastructure, accompanied by low commercialization potential, limit the economic and sustainability impact of these ILVs. Policies are therefore recommended to support market linkages, value chains, and improvement of infrastructure that would enhance the role of ILVs in food sustainability and rural economies
INVENTORY MANAGEMENT PRACTICES AND SUPPLY CHAIN PERFORMANCE IN THE AUTOMOTIVE INDUSTRY IN KENYA
(management university of africa, 2024-11) Otieno Dennice Onyango; Dr. Thiong’o Samuel Mungai
Intense competition implies that the automobile dealers need to come up with the best ways for of promoting their supply chain performance. This is because nearly three-quarters of the funds in the automobile industry is tied up in slow moving stock. Consequently, the industry is faced with the problem of having large inventory-built ups that ties up the capital thus affecting the supply chain performance. In order to restore normalcy, inventory management practices (IMPs) have been adopted by many dealers in the sector. However, the influence of these IMPs has not been adequately interrogated. Thus, the paper examined the influence of IMPs on the supply chain performance in the automotive industry. Specifically, the paper examined the influence of just in time and FIFO on the supply chain performance in the automobile industry in Kenya. The paper was anchored on the Transaction Cost Analysis (TCA) and the Theory of Constraints (TOC) and was based on the descriptive research design. Data was gathered using the questionnaires and analyzed using the descriptive statistics including the mean, standard deviation and the inferential statistics including the correlation and regression analysis. The results showed that IMPs influenced the supply chain performance in the automobile industry in Kenya. Just in time accounted for 61.5% of the variance in the supply chain performance while 68.3% of the variation in supply chain performance in the automobile industry in Kenya was explained by FIFO.
LEADERSHIP COMMITMENT AND INCLUSIVITY CULTURE IN STATE CORPORATIONS IN KENYA: A CASE STUDY OF KENYA REVENUE AUTHORITY HEADQUARTERS
(management university of africa, 2024-11) Caroline N. Munialo; Ms. Gladys Mabonga
The primary objective of this study was to examine the relationship between leadership commitment and the creation of an inclusivity culture within the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA). Specifically, the study evaluated the effects of leadership vision, and leadership policies on the development of an inclusivity culture at KRA. The research explored the intersection of leadership commitment and inclusivity integrating key theories such as Transformational Leadership Theory, and Social Identity Theory. Transformational Leadership Theory served as the anchor theory, emphasizing how leaders inspire and motivate employees toward higher performance levels and organizational change. The study targeted all 1,320 employees working at Times Tower, employing stratified random sampling to select 132 respondents for participation. Primary data were collected using a structured questionnaire that contained both open and closed-ended questions, while secondary data were gathered from journals, books, and reports. Data analysis was performed using descriptive statistics, including regression analysis and standard deviations, alongside thematic analysis to identify and interpret patterns related to leadership commitment and inclusivity culture. The findings revealed that KRA leadership exhibited significant commitment to inclusivity, positively correlating with employee perceptions of the inclusivity culture. Specifically, leadership vision emerged as the most influential factor in fostering inclusivity. Overall, this research contributes to the understanding of the vital role leadership commitment plays in shaping an inclusive organizational culture and provides actionable recommendations for enhancing inclusivity practices within KRA.
LEARNING, CURRICULUM DESIGN AND EMPLOYABILITY OF UNIVERSITY GRADUATES IN KENYA. A CASE STUDY OF MANAGEMENT UNIVERSITY OF AFRICA
(management university of africa, 2024-11) Gladys Nafula Mabonga; Prof. Washington Okeyo; Faith Jematia Keitany
The Management University of Africa graduates over 400 students every year in various disciplines. According to the 2022 Employers’ Tracer Study carried out by Management University of Africa, 71% of the graduates of 2021 were employed (including the 10% who were self-employed). Over 50 key employers were identified during the survey (Public and Private). One of the key recommendations of the Tracer Study report was to decrease unemployment through the inclusion of stakeholder expectations in the process of curriculum development. In Kenya, despite the rising levels of education, many graduates face very high unemployment rates. This raises questions on the demand and market orientation of the university learning, curriculum development and whether the university course designers are cognizant of labor market trends. It’s for this reason this paper sought to investigate the effect of university learning, curriculum design on employability of graduates. Graduates with “employability skills” like teamwork, communication skills, decision making, emotional intelligence, critical thinking and the ability to motivate others to achieve a common goal are in high demand from employers. Investing in employability skills training in the universities is essential for creating a high-performance work culture. The specific objectives of this study are to find out the effect of teaching methodology on employability and to examine the effect of curriculum design on employability. The study adopted desktop review of market surveys, teaching effectiveness evaluation surveys and tracer studies surveys at Management University of Africa. The study findings were analyzed using themes and presented in charts and tables.
PERFORMANCE MANAGEMENT GOALS AND PERFORMANCE MANAGEMENT FEEDBACK ON EMPLOYEE PRODUCTIVITY
(management university of africa, 2024-11) Choge Jerotich Emmy; David Kanyanjua
Organizations invest billions of shillings annually in managing employee performance. The study aimed to examine the influence of performance management goals and performance management feedback on employee productivity, using Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH) as a case study. The primary objective was to understand how performance management influences productivity among KNH employees. The variables of e study were employee productivity as the dependent variable and, feedback and goals as the independent variables. The theory underpinning the study is Locke’s goal-setting theory supported by Adam's equity theory. The study adopted descriptive research design, with a sample size of 372 participants drawn from the hospital’s 5,300 employees. A pilot study was conducted with 60 staff members from Mbagathi Hospital to refine the research instruments. Data was collected through questionnaires, with analysis performed using SPSS Version 25.0. Descriptive and inferential statistics were employed, and a regression analysis was conducted to evaluate the influence of performance management on employee productivity. The analysis revealed that performance management goals significantly impact employee productivity, indicating a strong positive relationship. The findings led to the conclusion that effective performance management through well-structured goals and feedback will positively enhance employee productivity. Consequently, the study recommends that KNH's human resources department ensure a transparent, logical performance management techniques that accurately identifies staff training needs. It further advises the department to communicate the importance of performance management clearly and to employ a range of performance management methods in employee assessments.
PERFORMANCE OF POVERTY ALLEVIATION PROGRAMMES AND SOCIO ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT: A CASE OF CARITAS INTERNATIONAL PROGRAMME IN HOMA BAY COUNTY, KENYA
(management university of africa, 2024-11) Collins Ochieng Omollo; Daniel Maina Komu
Agricultural production is a crucial driver of socio-economic development. Agricultural production improves household’s income through the sale of farm produce and at the same time it improves household nutrition level as household can access a diverse variety of foods such as meat, milk, meat and eggs. This study examined the performance of poverty alleviation programmed and socio-economic development: a case of Caritas International in Homa Bay County within Kenya. The independent variable under study was crop development. The study was anchored by the empowerment theory and supported by the restricted opportunity theory. The study adopted the descriptive study design to describe the social and economic characteristics of the target population. The target population was 1,142 household heads out of which through stratified random sampling, 92 respondents were selected to be part of the study sample. Proportionate sampling was then employed to ensure that the three sub counties under study were proportionately represented in the sample. The data was collected through questionnaire. Data analysis was done through the use of Statistical Packages for Social Science (SPSS) version 29. Descriptive and inferential statistics were generated to help in summarizing data to aid in making meaningful conclusions and recommendations. Tables, charts and percentages were used to present the summarized data. The findings of this study reveal that crop development enhances household nutrition and on other hand surplus realized from production is a source of income which can be used for investment in education, descent housing and access to better healthcare services. This study recommends that the national and county governments should supplement the efforts already made by Caritas in alleviating poverty through crop development. There is need for providing more resources to the poor households, so that crop production can be done in a large scale to enable commercialization. There is need to conduct a study on how land fragmentation affects household’s level of production in terms of technical efficiency of agriculture and the sustainability of food production system.
PREPAREDNESS MECHANISMS AND SUCCESS OF FIRE SAFETY PROJECTS AMONG PUBLIC SECONDARY SCHOOLS IN KENYA. A SURVEY OF NAIROBI COUNTY
(management university of africa, 2024-11) Dr. Nyaga G. Juster; John Cheluget (PhD)
The Ministry of Education recognizes fire disasters in schools as a serious challenge to learners’ ability to attain their full potential. Fire safety projects in secondary schools have been a serious challenge as depicted by the many fire incidences experienced in secondary schools thus the need of combined efforts in the establishment of fire safety preparedness mechanisms in all learning institutions in Kenya. The purpose of this study was to establish the influence of preparedness mechanisms on the success of fire safety projects in public secondary schools in Nairobi County. Specifically, the study focused on the influence of training, financial resources and Monitoring & evaluation on success of fire safety projects. The study is anchored on the theory of constrains and system theory. Descriptive research design was adopted with a target population of 60 fire safety projects implemented in public secondary schools in Nairobi County. The unit of observation were 60 persons in charge of fire safety projects. Questionnaire was used to collect the data. Piloting was done in 6 public secondary schools in Kiambu County and the data obtained was used to test reliability of the instruments. Multicollinearity, linearity and normality test were done to ensure the Ordinary Least Square (OLS) regression assumptions are not violated. Data was analyzed using descriptive statistics, and multiple regression. The study found out that all the factors considered in the study were significant as indicated by high values of mean. Trainings conducted strongly influenced the success of fire safety projects in secondary schools, followed by monitoring and evaluation and financial resources. The study recommended more trainings on fire safety and responsiveness to be carried out not only among the staff but also among the student for quick reaction in case there is an outbreak. The management of the school also need to be keen on the root cause of the fires and put measures to respond on them.
PROJECT LEADERSHIP AND PERFORMANCE OF ROAD INFRASTRUCTURAL PROJECTS IN NAIROBI COUNTY, KENYA: A CASE OF KENYA URBAN ROADS AUTHORITY
(management university of africa, 2024-11) Dr. Nyaga G. Juster; Prof. Washington Okeyo (PhD)
Kenya Construction market is to record 9.5% growth by year 2025 and remain a growth outperformer in Sub-Sahara Africa. This positive outlook has brought about tremendous market growth in infrastructural projects. Government has spent substantial amount in infrastructure alongside foreign investment which has put high debt burden on the government threatening the pace of infrastructure development and dent investor confidence in the market. This has posed a lot of challenges to the leadership as they try to balance the high debt and accomplishment of ‘the Big4’ agenda. The performance of infrastructural projects, however, has not shown many fruits as out of 177,800 kilometers of road networks in Kenya, only about 16,902 (9.5%) kilometers is paved with the rest unpaved. In an effort to deal with the challenges, leaders have introduced toll roads with private sector participation on various roads networks to raise funds for infrastructural development of roads, maintenance of the existing roads, improve public commuters’ services and ease congestion. This study investigates relationship between project leadership and performance of road infrastructural projects in Nairobi County, Kenya. Positivism philosophy informed the study and cross-sectional descriptive research design was adopted. The study targeted 20 road projects under Kenya Urban Roads Authority within Nairobi County, and the respondents were projects contractors and projects engineers. Questionnaire was administered through emails. Reliability was tested using Cronbach Alpha. Diagnostics test (normality and multicollinearity test) for Ordinary Least Squares were carried. Data analysis involved descriptive statistics (mean and standard deviation), correlation coefficient and multiple regression analysis. The study found that project leadership influenced projects performance. The study recommended that there is a need for the government to come up with support mechanisms for the roads and accountability mechanism to ensure ethical practices among the project leaders.
PUBLIC PERCEPTION AND TECHNICAL KNOWHOW AS DETERMINANTS OF THE ADOPTION OF PREFABRICATED BUILDING TECHNOLOGY: A CASE OF NATIONAL HOUSING CORPORATION, NAIROBI COUNTY
(management university of africa, 2024-11) Lekina Tutui; Dr. Nyaga G. Juster
The current practice of adopting prefabrication methods improves building durability while reducing costs, which defeats the concept of on-site construction, due to heightened understanding and perception of the various cost constraints in the innovative approach in the prefab construction model. A rise in the prefab-technology adoption benefits the construction industry, hence the need to gauge the determinants of the level of adoption of this innovative construction technology in the housing sector is needed. This survey sought to find out how public perception and technical know-how affects the adoption of prefabricated building technology in the case of the National Housing Corporation in Kenya. The study adopted a descriptive research design on a sample of 71 users of prefabricated construction technology and 12 prefab experts registered at the NHC. Structured questionnaires were used for data collection, and the qualitative and quantitative data was analyzed through SPSS, while OLS regression was done to ascertain the relationships among the variables under study. The study found that technical know-how and public perception showed a positive statistically significant relationship with the level of adoption of prefabricated building technology. The study therefore confirmed that improvement in technical know-how and public perception would result in an improvement in the level of adoption to prefabricated building technology. The study suggests that this topic should be further researched in a bid to widen its generalizability and allow further research on the topic to unearth even more determinant factors, hence this study suggests further study of this topic in different and wider geographical zones. The current practice of adopting prefabrication methods improves building durability while reducing costs, which defeats the concept of on-site construction, due to heightened understanding and perception of the various cost constraints in the innovative approach in the prefab construction model. A rise in the prefab-technology adoption benefits the construction industry, hence the need to gauge the determinants of the level of adoption of this innovative construction technology in the housing sector is needed. This survey sought to find out how public perception and technical know-how affects the adoption of prefabricated building technology in the case of the National Housing Corporation in Kenya. The study adopted a descriptive research design on a sample of 71 users of prefabricated construction technology and 12 prefab experts registered at the NHC. Structured questionnaires were used for data collection, and the qualitative and quantitative data was analyzed through SPSS, while OLS regression was done to ascertain the relationships among the variables under study. The study found that technical know-how and public perception showed a positive statistically significant relationship with the level of adoption of prefabricated building technology. The study therefore confirmed that improvement in technical know-how and public perception would result in an improvement in the level of adoption to prefabricated building technology. The study suggests that this topic should be further researched in a bid to widen its generalizability and allow further research on the topic to unearth even more determinant factors, hence this study suggests further study of this topic in different and wider geographical zones.
STRATEGIC LEADERSHIP AND ORGANIZATION PERFORMANCE IN WATER AND ENERGY SOLUTIONS COMPANIES IN KENYA: A CASE STUDY OF DAVIS AND SHIRTLIFF KENYA LTD
(management university of africa, 2024-11) Benedict Mutisya; Daniel Maina Komu
Despite global and national recognition of the critical role strategic leadership plays in organizational performance, a lack of strategic leadership in water and energy solutions companies in Kenya hinders their potential. This is often overlooked by management, particularly in the face of high employee turnover. The objectives were to establish the effects of succession planning, and strategic direction on the performance of Davis & Shurtliff Ltd (D&S). The study is anchored in strategic management theory, drawing upon institutional theory and resource-based view. With 1500 people as the target population, a descriptive study design was used. A stratified random sample of 150 participants was selected. Data was gathered through surveys, Both Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) and fundamental statistics were used to analyze the quantitative data. Tables were used to present the data. To demonstrate the relationships between the variables, inferential statistics were employed. Throughout the study time, the research investigation was guided by ethical criteria. The study established a high correlation between organizational performance at D&S and strategic leadership practices, and it was discovered that organizational performance was significantly impacted by strategic direction it can be concluded that enhancing succession planning could lead to improved organizational performance while suggesting that organizations with strong strategic direction are likely to experience increased performance. It recommended that to retain and attract new talent and capabilities that will enhance the organization's performance, D&S management should implement a structured succession planning framework. This will address the current gap in establishing a framework for future critical personnel replacements. Additionally, training employees who lack the necessary qualifications and opportunities for job advancement is crucial. It is also recommended that top positions be advertised internally before external recruitment.
STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT PRACTICES AND ORGANIZATIONAL PERFORMANCE OF STATE DEPARTMENTS IN KENYA: A CASE STUDY OF THE DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
(management university of africa, 2024-11) Wangeci, Susan Kiogora; Dr. Domeniter Naomi Kathula
The main goal of this research was to investigate the effects of strategic management practices on the organizational performance of state departments in Kenya, with a focus on the State Department of Agriculture. The specific objectives were to examine the effect of environmental scanning and strategic implementation on the organizational performance of state departments in Kenya. The study was guided by system theory, resource-based theory, agency theory, and goalsetting theory. A descriptive research design was employed, targeting 659 employees at the State Department of Agriculture in Upper Hill, with a sample size of 249 respondents determined using the Yamane formula. A pilot investigation was conducted to test for reliability and validity. SPSS software Version 25 was used to analyze the data, with the findings presented in tables. Ethical considerations were observed throughout the study. The study concluded the following: Environmental scanning significantly impacts the performance of Kenyan state agencies. Regular monitoring of dynamic environments, coupled with attention to diversity, enhances competitive response and strengthens organizational effectiveness. Strategic implementation also substantially influences outcomes, with efficient resource allocation and monitoring being essential, though further adjustments in resources are necessary to fully achieve strategic objectives. The report recommends that Kenyan state agencies improve their environmental scanning and strategic implementation processes to improve overall organizational effectiveness. Agencies should improve their environmental scanning procedures by focusing on competitive and dynamic situations, formulating strategic responses, and incorporating multiple viewpoints to adjust quickly to changing conditions. Strategic implementation requires prioritizing effective resource allocation and creating rigorous progress monitoring tools. Clear communication and professional development options, such as mentorship and career advancement, can help employees integrate their positions with larger strategic goals, creating accountability and engagement. Future policy changes should emphasize extensive environmental scanning, consistent corporate communication, and effective resource allocation.