Challenges of strategy implementation at Kenya wildlife service

Abstract

The general purpose of the study was to establish the challenges of strategy implementation at Kenya Wildlife Service. The study was carried out through; a case study research design focusing on the top management of KWS. Primary data was collected from the respondents through questionnaires and interview schedules. A total of 46 questionnaires were distributed out of which, 37 responded by completing and returning the questionnaires 9 did not respond. Secondary data was derived from KWS strategic plan and reports. The data collected was analyzed using content analysis and descriptive statistics to present information pertaining to the study objectives. The research findings revealed that KWS had successfully implemented 2005-2010 strategic plan in a record 3 years having achieved 80% of its targeted objectives, this was also cited as the first strategic plan to be implemented by the organization since inception. However, it was also established that the organization had encountered numerous challenges in implementing this strategic plans. According to this research, the majority of the respondents cited inadequate financial resources and negative national politics as the major challenges to the organization. Further due to the successful implementation of the strategic plan 2005-2010, KWS reviewed the strategic plan and was in the process of implementing 2008-2012 strategic plan. Arising from the research findings, it was suggested that the organization should lobby for more funds from the GOK and the passing of the Wildlife Bill by Parliament for the organization to achieve its mandate. The study focused on strategy implementation at KWS only, thus the results may not be generalized to all public sector organizations. Therefore it is recommended that a study be undertaken cutting across all government ministries and departments so as to enable generalization of findings.