Challenges of strategy implementation in the public sector in Kenya: the case of Retirement Benefits Authority (RBA

Abstract

This is a case study of Retirement benefits Authority (RBA). The Study investigates the challenges experienced in strategy implementation at RBA. The specific objectives of the study are to establish the challenges of strategy implementation in RBA and to determine how RBA is addressing the challenges. The research got information on the study by carrying out face to face interviews with the top management of RBA. As this is a case study the presentation of the findings is in qualitative form. From the findings, RBA faces challenges both at the micro and macro level. At macro level, the challenges are institutional and within its control; while at macro, they are national and global with few and complex options for the Authority to intervene and control. Respondents indicated that the structure is not adequate enough to handle growth and diverse specialties of the Authority. Generally, the relevant quality skills and knowledge in pension industry is lacking in Kenya. The educational institutions do not offer courses and training on pension and retirement benefits. Also, political factors define the legal and regulatory parameters within which the Authority operates in. Further, technological challenges are likely to be an obstacle in the Authority's product diversification agenda especially in the informal sector. The Authority continues to learn to adapt to these challenges. Notwithstanding its tremendous achievements, it is also clear that the Authority needs to make crucial adjustments to its long term strategy in order to effectively discharge its mandate.