Effect of Leadership Change on Performance of Garissa Water and Sewerage Company, Kenya

Abstract

Garissa Water and Sewerage Company has consistently recorded poor performance manifesting in form of decline in revenue collection, rising operational costs, and limited water coverage. While studies have linked strategic management practices to organizational outcomes, there is limited research in this area for Garissa Water and Sewerage Company; justifying the need to investigate the effect of leadership change on GAWASCO’s performance. This study investigates the effect of leadership change on the performance of Garissa Water and Sewerage Company, Kenya. The study employed a descriptive research design targeting 91 employees of Garissa Water and Sewerage Company, Since the target population was manageable and easily accessible, the study used census. Primary data was collected using semi-structured questionnaires complemented by interviews with key informants. The tool was tested for validity using content analysis and reliability using The Cronbach’s alpha coefficients at a threshold of 0.7. Quantitative data collected was analysed to yield. descriptive statistics. Regression analysis was carried out to establish a model for predicting the dependent variable in terms of the independent variable. The findings revealed that leadership change positively and significantly influences performance of Garissa Water and Sewerage Company, Kenya., with emphasis on leaders’ commitment, competence, creativity, and ability to build coalitions for change (R² = 0.538, B = 0.612, p = 0.000). The study concludes that leadership transformation enhances efficiency, service delivery, and revenue collection in public water utilities. It recommends strengthening leadership development programs, fostering innovative leadership styles, and institutionalizing participatory approaches to sustain performance gains. Effective, visionary, and accountable leadership, built through strategic communication, development, and evaluation, would significantly enhance organizational performance, service delivery, and public trust, especially in essential sectors like water supply.