INSPIRING A SHARED VISION PRACTICE AND SERVICE DELIVERY IN THE NATIONAL POLICE SERVICE IN KENYA
Abstract
Statement of the Problem: The National Police Service (NPS) in Kenya is tasked with maintaining law and order and ensuring public safety. However, challenges persist in delivering consistent and high-quality services. One critical yet underexplored area is the influence of visionary leadership, particularly the role of a shared organizational vision, on service delivery outcomes within the NPS.
Purpose of the Study: This research explored how the promotion of a shared vision among personnel within the NPS affects the quality and effectiveness of service delivery. The study was grounded in the principles of transformational leadership theory, focusing on how future-oriented leadership can shape organizational performance.
Research Methodology: A mixed-methods research approach was adopted, integrating both quantitative and qualitative techniques. Data was collected through structured surveys and in-depth interviews with officers and administrative personnel. The study employed stratified sampling to ensure representation across ranks and departments. Analytical tools included statistical correlation and thematic analysis.
Findings: Results indicated a significant positive relationship between visionary leadership and service performance. Officers who reported alignment with a shared organizational vision also reported higher levels of motivation, accountability, and public trust. The study found that clearly communicated goals and consistent leadership messaging were associated with improved service outcomes.
Conclusion: The research concludes that fostering a shared vision within the NPS enhances both internal organizational performance and external public perception.Visionary leadership practices positively influence service delivery, staff morale, and public confidence in policing institutions.
Recommendations: The study recommends the implementation of structured leadership training programs within the NPS that emphasize vision development, communication, and alignment. It also encourages leadership to involve personnel at all levels in the vision-building process to ensure widespread ownership and commitment.
Keywords: Inspiring a Shared Vision, Service Delivery, National Police Service, Kenya
References
Akella, D. (2021). A learner-centric model of learning organizations. The Learning Organization, 28(1), 71–83. https://doi.org/10.1108/TLO-01-2021-259
Burke, W. W. (2017). Organization Change: Theory and Practice (5th ed.). Sage Publications.
Elkjaer, B. (2021). The learning organization from a pragmatist perspective. The Learning Organization, 28(1), 59–70. https://doi.org/10.1108/TLO-01-2021-259
Fledderus, J. (2006). Does use of co-production of public service delivery increase satisfaction and trust. International Journal of Public Administration vol. 38, No. 9, pp. 642- 653
Hariharan, S., & Anand, S. (2023). Balancing power, learning and change in learning organizations. The Learning Organization, 30(4), 291–305. https://doi.org/10.1108/TLO-04-2023-291
Kettunen, P., & Kantola, J. (2021). Leadership and organizational performance in public organizations. Public Management Review, 23(1), 45–65. https://doi.org/10.1080/14719037.2020.1715816
Kivoi, L. (2021). Challenges affecting police service delivery in Kenya: An analytical review. Journal of Public Administration and Governance, 11(3), 89–101. https://doi.org/10.5296/jpag.v11i3.18845
Northouse, P. G. (2018). Leadership: Theory and Practice (8th ed.). Sage Publications.
Ochieng, L. A., & Juma, D. (2019). Influence of formal grievance procedures on employee retention in Kenya’s devolved units: A case study of Kisumu County. The Strategic Journal of Business & Change Management, 6(2), 2272-2285.
Onyango, J. (2021). Leadership practices and service delivery in the Kenyan police service. African Journal of Public Affairs, 13(2), 112–129. https://doi.org/10.31920/1750-5468/2021/v13n2a7
Transparency International. (2021). Corruption perceptions index 2021. Retrieved from https://www.transparency.org/en/cpi/2021/index/nzl