Human Resource Development Challenges and Impact in Non-Governmental Organizations in Kenya (A Survey of Non-governmental Organizations in Nairobi)

Abstract

Purpose: The aim of this study was to document the challenges and subsequent impact of Human Resource Development (HRD) in Non-Government Organizations (NGO) in Kenya.Methodology: The study adopted a descriptive design method. The sample size was drawn using stratified random sampling technique from a frame of 38 registered NGOs in Nairobi and had a final result of 10 NGOs and 120 respondents. Sixty (60) respondents were selected from the 120 respondents. A response rate of 30 (50%) was obtained from the 60 questionnaires handed out. The research results were presented in tables and charts and were analyzed using MS Excel and SPSS. Descriptive statistics were used in interpreting data, measure of tendencies and measurement of the relationship of different variables.Results: The study findings revealed that training had an effect on human resource as it helped in optimizing the utilization of human resource, helped in providing an opportunity and broad structure for the development of human resources' technical and behavioral skills in an organization, led to increased job knowledge and skills of employees at each level as well as their productivity, improved the morale of the work force and helped in creating a better corporate image for the organization. Findings also indicated that staff motivation was high in the NGO sector hence staff motivation may not be a challenge to human resource development in the selected NGOs. Finally, it was concluded that human resource development impacts on organizational performance as it leads to improvement in profits, leads to competitive advantage and leads to improved employee morale.Unique contribution to theory, practice and policy: It was recommended that training in NGOs may be given priority as it helped in optimizing the utilization of human resource, as well as providing an opportunity and broad structure for the development of human resources’ technical and behavioral skills in an organization. It was also recommended that NGOs may continue addressing the motivation issues so as to maintain the high level of motivation that currently exists in NGOs.