Leadership styles and employee performance in local governments in Uganda, a case study of Kyenjojo District local government.

Abstract

The study was about the relationship between leadership styles and employee performance in local governments in Uganda focusing on Kyenjojo district local government as the case study. The objectives that guided the study were; To establish the relationship between transformational leadership and employee performance in Kyenjojo district local government, to examine the relationship between transactional leadership and employee performance in Kyenjojo district local government and to establish the relationship between servant leadership style and employee performance in Kyenjojo district local government. The study adopted a cross-sectional survey research design; descriptive and cross-sectional research design was used in the study. The study was cross-sectional. A sample of 132 from a population of 200 was used for the study in accordance with Krejcie and Morgan (1970). The data collection methods included questionnaire method, interview method and documentary review method with their corresponding tools/instruments. Reliability was determined through the use of Cronbach’s coefficient Alpha, computed using the SPSS program. Data was analyzed using descriptive statistics to summarize data in a meaningful manner while qualitative data responses were transcribed into themes and categories, to support hypotheses tested. The model summary indicates a moderate positive correlation (R = 0.405) between transformational leadership and employee performance, the model summary reveals an R-value of 0.401, suggesting that transactional leadership is moderately correlated with employee performance and the regression analysis indicates that servant leadership style has a strong and positive impact on employee performance. The study concluded that positive influence of transformational leadership on employee performance, transactional leadership plays a positive role in enhancing employee performance and servant leadership significantly enhances employee performance. The study recommended that it is crucial to invest in training programs that develop leaders' capabilities in transformational, transactional, and servant leadership. Workshops and continuous professional development should be organized to equip leaders with the skills necessary to inspire, set clear objectives, and prioritize employee well-being, organizations adopt a multi-faceted leadership approach that combines the strengths of each style, Organizations should cultivate a culture that supports the application of these leadership styles and continuous evaluation and feedback mechanisms should be established. Regular surveys, performance appraisals, and 360-degree feedback can provide insights into how leadership styles are affecting employee performance.