Role of Culture in Enhancing Effectiveness of Strategic Leadership in Public Sector: A Case of Kisumu County Government, Kenya

Abstract

Culture being the way of life of a people influences every facet of their work-life as it shapes their behaviors and defines how they solve issues and handle challenges. Leadership practices and effectiveness are to a large extent determined by culture. This study sought to establish the role of culture in enhancing effectiveness of strategic leadership in public sector; a case of Kisumu County Government, Kenya. The objectives were to examine the role of culture, to establish the effectiveness of strategic leadership and to examine the role of culture in enhancing strategic leadership effectiveness in Kisumu County Government, Kenya. This study employed the descriptive research design. Stratified random sampling was used to select a sample size of eighty (80) members of the County Government in strategic positions mainly the executive and County Assembly. Collected data was analysed in Microsoft Excel spreadsheets and statistical package of social science (SPSS) version 21. The study revealed a strong supportive culture based on servant leadership, integrity and clear structures with principles, policies and guidelines used to foster cooperation, teamwork and competitiveness which in turn enhance stability and continuity. This study also revealed defensive/aggressive culture with distinct power distance among members of the County Assembly. The study revealed that strategic leadership effectiveness is measured by County Government’s ability to meet the set objectives every financial year and ability to account for funds allocated to them by the National Government. Study revealed subcultures within the county that are a hindrance to successful implementation of objectives. The study recommends sensitization; familiarization and support of employees on the role of organizational culture. The study recommends further research in leadership styles and how they affect strategy implementation; and leader-follower relationships in the public sector.