EMPLOYEE ENGAGEMENT PRACTICES AND PERFORMANCE OF NUT PROCESSING COMPANIES IN KENYA

Susan Kinyanjui, Dr. Scholastica Wamwayi

Abstract


Employee engagement is a pivotal element influencing organizational success, yet its specific impact within various industries remains underexplored. This study investigated the influence of employee engagement practices on the performance of nut processing companies in Kenya. With the global emphasis on enhancing employee satisfaction to improve organizational outcomes, this research focuses on key practices such as professional development, and employee wellness programs. The theories that informed this study are Human Capital Theory, and Investment Theory of Employee Motivation. The study adopted a descriptive research design, targeting management employees in 28 nut processing companies in Kenya. The target population comprised 252 individuals in top, middle, and lower management, with a sample size of 153 selected through stratified random sampling. Primary data was collected using a structured questionnaire, employing a five-point Likert scale for responses. The pilot test involved a sample of 15 respondents, which represents 10% of the total sample size. The results from the pilot test were not used in the main study, and the respondents who participate in the pilot test were excluded from the final research to avoid any potential bias. Data analysis involved both descriptive and inferential statistics, using SPSS software. The analysis included measures such as mean, standard deviation, and percentages, while inferential analysis were conducted through Pearson correlation and multiple regression to test the strength and nature of relationships between the variables. The pilot study confirmed that the research instrument is valid and reliable for assessing employee engagement practices and firm performance. A total of 140 valid responses were analyzed, yielding a response rate of 91.5%. Regression analysis revealed that professional development (B = 0.348), employee wellness (B = 0.330), had significant positive effects on firm performance. The study concludes that employee engagement practices—particularly professional development—are critical drivers of organizational success. It recommends that nut processing companies invest in targeted training programs, enhance employee wellness initiatives, to boost performance and competitiveness.

Key Words: Employee Engagement Practices, Performance of Nut Processing Companies, Professional Development, Employee Wellness Programs


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