Abstract:
Results Based Management (RBM) was introduced in 2004 out of the need to improve
service delivery and demonstrate reform gains from the implementation of the Economic
Recovery Strategy. The RBM tools introduced included Rapid Results Initiative (RRI),
Performance Contract (PC), Service Charter (SC) and Automation through Local
Authorities Integrated Financial Operations Management System (LAIFOMS) among
others. These approaches were implemented with the aim of improving service delivery
in the local authorities which have been replaced by County Government. However, there
is still outcry from the citizens that the services offered are no of good quality. This has
been reinforced by reports from Transparency International and Auditor General Office
of high corruption in County Governments. Therefore the aim of this study was to
investigate the effects of result based management on performance of County
Governments in Kenya; the specific objectives of this research were therefore to
investigate the effects of Rapid Results Initiative (RRI), Service Charter and Performance
Contract on the service delivery as well as the effects of LAIFOMS on financial
management at the Nyahururu Sub County. The research was based on Public Value and
Strategic Triangle Theories. The population of the study was 4,891 respondents
comprising of 4,751 customers and 140 staff. A sample of 42 staff and 355 customers
were selected using stratified random sampling. 292 respondents comprising of 37 staff
and 255 customers filled and returned the questionnaires. Data was analyzed using
multiple regression and correlation analysis. The p values for each independents variable
was less than 0.05 for both regression and multiple regression analysis. The study found
out that, Service Charter, Performance Contract, RRI and ICT had significant effects on
performance of County Governments. The study therefore recommends that staff should
be trained more on these tools as well as encourages them to implement them. In addition
their implementation should be monitored. Awareness should also be created to
customers about the service charter to understand their rights and obligation.
