The Nexus between Training and Development and Employee Performance in the County Government of Kakamega, Kenya

Abstract

The Constitution of Kenya, 2010 promised Kenyans a devolved system of county governments that would bring services closer to people and allow local people and communities to make decisions and manage their affairs through their elected leaders and representatives. Furthermore, article 10, read together with article 232 of the constitution, promises Kenyans good governance and a public service that upholds the principles of integrity. However, the environment for the implementation of devolution has had several obstacles due to various challenges experienced over time. Since the onset of devolution, county governments in Kenya have faced serious performance challenges, some of which have been attributed to the fact that they have not been able to achieve their desired results due to poor employee performance on service delivery. This study sought to investigate the effect of training and development on employee performance in the county government of Kakamega, Kenya. The study used a descriptive research design. The target population for this study was 6,266 employees of the County Government of Kakamega. The study used a sample size population of 375 employees. The data collected for the study were presented using tables and analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS). The validity of data instruments was ascertained by both theoretical and empirical literature, while data reliability was confirmed using Cronbach’s alpha test approach. The findings revealed that there was a statistically significant relationship between training and development and employee performance among employees of the County Government of Kakamega. The study recommended that the County Government of Kakamega should prioritize the training and development of employees by committing more budget allocation and supporting these commitments with strategic plans, clear policies, and dedicated establishments to enhance employee performance and service delivery.