Factors Influencing Industrial Unrest in the Public Sector in Kenya. A Case Study of Coast Provincial General Hospital

Abstract

This study sought to investigate the factors influencing industrial unrest in the public sector in Kenya specifically at Coast Provincial General Hospital in Mombasa County. Its aim was to investigate the influence of rewards, working environment, leadership styles and collective bargaining impasse on industrial unrest in the public sector. An industrial unrest may be defined as a conflict or difference of opinion between management and workers on the terms of employment. In today`s business world, competition is the order of the day. Production, quality, profits and corporate social responsibility are critical areas where companies can improve competitive edge. To attain competitive edge, companies must first ensure a harmonious relationship between all stakeholders. This research developed research questions such as what is the influence of working environment, rewards, leadership styles and collective bargaining impasse on industrial unrest. The study employed a descriptive research design. Stratified random sampling was used to select a sample 223 respondents from a target population of 748 employees. The study used semi-structured questionnaires with both closed and open ended questions. The filled-in and returned questionnaires were coded and entered into a Statistical Package for Social Sciences version 22.0.

Regression analysis was used to establish relationships between the variables of the study and industrial unrest. The findings revealed a significant positive relationship between working environment, rewards, leadership styles, collective bargaining impasse and industrial unrest. Based on the findings, the researcher recommended that the management and stakeholders of the Coast Provincial General Hospital should work towards improving the working conditions. They have to provide tools and equipments so as to motivate workers to achieve their personal and organizational goals.