Strategy Implementation at the Export Processing Zones Authority, Kenya

Abstract

Strategy implementation is relevant to the realization of the organization’s mission and vision. Strategy implementation can ensure that the Export Processing Zones Authority identifies the strategy implementation practices as well as the challenges and then attempts to mitigate the challenges to enable the Authority to achieve the objectives for which it was established efficiently and effectively. Several studies have been conducted to establish strategy implementation, practices, challenges, and mitigation measures for overcoming such challenges. However, such studies have conflicting findings. They also utilized methodologies with their limitations. Additionally, they did not look at strategy implementation at the Export Processing Zone Authority in Kenya together with variables such as strategy implementation practices, challenges of strategy implementation, and measures of mitigating such challenges collectively hence the need for the current study. This study therefore sought; to establish the strategy implementation practices at EPZA Kenya, to determine the challenges of strategy implementation at EPZA Kenya, and to ascertain the measures taken to mitigate the strategy implementation challenges at EPZA Kenya. The study employed a case study design and utilized interviews to collect primary data. Secondary data was obtained through published materials. The research participants were departmental heads at the Export Processing Zone Authority. Data was then analyzed through thematic content analysis. The study established that culture influences strategy implementation. The study also established that inadequate resources are a challenge to strategy implementation. Additionally, the study established that adequate resources and staff can help mitigate the challenges of strategy implementation. The study concluded that for EPZA to implement strategy effectively and efficiently, relevant strategy implementation practices must be implemented, challenges must also be identified and measures for addressing such challenges must be taken.