Leadership Style and Service Delivery in the Ministry of East African Community, Labour and Social Protection – Kenya: 2010 to 2016

Abstract

This study sought to assess the extent leadership styles influence service delivery in the Ministry of East African Community, Labour, and Social Protection. Over the years, studies have demonstrated positive relationship between leadership style and quality service delivery in organizations. While leadership styles vary from one organization to another, most of the literature has described styles such as visionary, democratic, affiliate, commanding and coaching as being in existence in most organizations. The Ministry of East African Community Labour, and Social Protection, continues to be ranked low in terms of service delivery. This is despite the Constitutional reforms that articulate service improvements of the government and change of leadership standards within the public service. The study therefore sought to answer the question “to what extent do leadership styles influence service delivery in the Ministry?” A mixed research design was used. The study was carried out in the Ministry‟s headquarters based in Nairobi County. Purposive sampling technique was used to select respondents for this study. Respondents drawn from the Cabinet Secretary, Principal Secretary, and departmental heads were identified for this study. The researcher triangulated the findings by obtaining responses from members of staffs who are the immediate implementers of leadership within the Ministry. A total of 10 directors, 18-line managers, and 18 junior staffs were sampled. Data was obtained using a structured questionnaire. Collected data was analyzed both qualitatively and quantitatively and presented in form of tables and graphs. The findings of the study revealed that leadership styles have a positive impact on improving service delivery in the Ministry. 44% of the respondents rated the leadership styles as very effective in enhancing service delivery; however, 67% rated them not effective. Those in leadership positions however described themselves as being democratic by involving employees in decision making. Employees on the other hand felt that leaders possess commanding qualities. It was however recommended that leaders to shun away from leadership styles that have connection with poor service delivery, such as the commanding leadership style.