Strategic Alliances and Performance of Non-governmental Organizations in the Human Rights Sector in Kenya

Abstract

This study sought to establish the nexus between strategic alliances and performance of the Human Rights Organizations. Over the years, non-governmental organizations have recognized the importance of forming strategic alliances as they seek to enhance their operations. Often, this is seen as an avenue for synergy between different organizations as they pool resources and maximize their benefits. To understand the connection between strategic alliances and performance in the human rights organizations, the study carried out a random sampling. Out of 142 human rights organizations in Kenya, 50 were selected as the samples across the 10 categories of the human rights organizations. The response rate was 86%. 45.2% of the sampled organizations were local and 40.5% were international organizations. A questionnaire was used to collect data, which was analysed and presented in graphs, charts and figures. The study indicated that 95% of the human rights organizations form strategic alliances. It was established that resource sharing, commitment and effective leadership are some of the factors that NGOs consider in forming alliances. However, challenges such as information gap, government approvals, and inadequate resources are major stumbling block to effective strategic alliance formation. A regression analysis was carried out which indicated that strategic alliances significantly influence performance of the organizations. Technology, monitoring and evaluation and stakeholders’ involvement are some of the performance enhancement solution in strategic alliances. This study recommends that NGOs should systemize strategic alliances and partnership in their strategic planning. The study also recommends that management of Non-governmental organizations should execute capacity building of their employees when getting into a partnership or strategic alliance. The government agencies that regulate the NGOs should implement policies that guide the formation of strategic alliances in the Human Rights sector.