Strategic Leadership and Socio-economic Development of Mukuru Slums in Starehe Subcounty, Nairobi, Kenya

Abstract

This study sought to ascertain the relationship between strategic leadership and socio-economic development in the context of Mukuru Slums in Starehe Sub-County in Nairobi, Kenya. The researcher settled on Mukuru slums because of its geographical proximity to the central business district of Nairobi. This area was also ideal for researcher because he had previously worked in Mukuru as a government administrator for Starehe Sub-County. He therefore had succinct knowledge of the area and could easily form a researchable topic based on observable problems witnessed and experienced. The study was supported by transformational leadership theory, resource-based theory and stakeholder management theory. The study’s main objective was to determine the contribution of strategic leadership to socio-economic development of the study area. Semi-structured questionnaire was used to collect primary data from 45 village elders of Mukuru slums. The researcher believed that good leadership based on the independent variable; strategic leadership could help this area achieve a meaningful socio-economic development. The area experiences poor sanitation, inadequate socio-amenities, and unemployment yet the area is sandwiched between industries, big businesses and high-end estates. The research focused on three dimensions of strategic leadership: ethical behaviour, visionary leadership, and decision-making and problem-solving abilities of the village elders. The literature review of related studies revealed concentration on profit making institutions, and competitive advantage. While similar studies on socio economic development to have been done outside Kenya. This revealed both contextual and conceptual gap, justifying the current study. The research hypothesised that; strategic leadership significantly influences socio-economic development. The findings revealed that strategic leadership defined by moral ethics, has a positive association, is significant and improves socioeconomic development of Mukuru Slums. Ethical practices, fostered trust, credibility, and a sense of social responsibility among leaders, and is paramount in promoting sustainable development initiatives. However, the study highlighted the challenge of inadequate resources, as limit to ethical practices. Visionary leadership emerged well-exercised by the leaders, and is effective in mobilizing the community towards a collective sense of purpose. There were shortcomings in decision-making and problem-solving skills in this area. Addressing these skill gaps is pertinent to improving strategic leadership which is vital for making decisions to improve the living conditions in slum areas. The research emphasized the importance of ethical and visionary leadership in driving socio-economic progress, while advocating for resource support and skills development to fully harness the potential of strategic leadership in Mukuru Slums.