Relationship between empowerment and job Satisfaction: a survey of employees in the Non-governmental sector in Kenya

Abstract

Few studies have examined job satisfaction and empowerment in general and in the NGO sector in particular. The main objective of this project was to establish whether there is a relationship between job satisfaction and empowerment of employees working in NGOs in Kenya. Data was obtained by means of a survey questionnaire that was distributed to 10 employees of each of the 10 NGOs in Nairobi. The 10 NGOs were selected randomly, and a total of 54 questionnaires were filled and returned. The response rate was 54%. Data was analyzed using descriptive statistics, correlation and regression analysis. It was found that majority of employees were satisfied (70%) with their jobs and 85% were empowered. It was also evident that those who were satisfied derived their satisfaction from being empowered. The study showed a compelling correlation between empowerment and job satisfaction. This implies that NGOs should do everything possible to empower their employees as this leads to job satisfaction. Recommendations from the research are of relevance to NGO management to develop and enforce the necessary structures and conditions that will enhance the effectiveness of empowerment programs that will deliver the full benefits to the organisation.