Examining the important factors that influence employee's motivation at their places of work in Kenya

Abstract

This study investigated the most important factors influencing the levels of motivation of civil servants working in the Government of Kenya. It focused on the Ministry of higher education, Science and Technology, which was selected through purposive sampling. The study was based on both primary and secondary data. Secondary data was obtained through reviewing relevant literature while primary data was collected using quantitative and qualitative approaches. The survey was conducted in the sampled ministry through interviews using questionnaires. Also, key informants were interviewed and the observation method was used where appropriate. The findings of the study show that civil servants have a fair level of motivation. However, though many state that they are motivated, there are lots of areas that do not score well and thus call for strategies to address the bottlenecks. The civil servants have varying needs which consequently influence the level of motivation. There is no one specjfic factor that is most important in influencing the civil servants level of motivation. There are many factors in addition to pay. In line with the findings, the study has made recommendations for promotion of employee motivation in the civil service. It recommends that the gaps in motivation of civil servants should be identified continually and the necessary mitigation measures taken. The motivation process should be supported by using organizational systems such as policies and procedures. Guidelines on motivation of civil servants should therefore be formulated and implem.e.nted at all levels. In formulating such guidelines, it is necessary to benchmark with other sectors and also refer to best practices.