Effect of resource mobilization strategies on operational efficiency of Non-Governmental Organizations supporting secondary schools in Nairobi County, Kenya

Abstract

Resource mobilization strategies are fundamental for organizations, especially non-profits, to effectively secure and manage the resources needed to fulfil their missions. In light of the prevailing financial crisis and the myriad challenges confronting Kenya's education sector including insufficient infrastructure and shifting donor priorities, Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) dedicated to education face a daunting task. These challenges underscore the urgent need for effective resource mobilization strategies to bridge critical gaps and ensure sustainable educational outcomes. The aim of the investigation was to assess the impact of resource mobilization techniques on the operational efficiency of NGOs supporting secondary schools in Nairobi County. The specific objectives guiding the study were: to assess the impact of diversified self-production strategy on operational efficiency of NGOs supporting secondary schools in Nairobi County, to analyse the influence of constituent-centric mobilization strategy on operational efficiency of NGOs supporting secondary schools in Nairobi County, to determine the influence of collaborative co-optation strategy on operational efficiency of NGOs supporting secondary schools. The study was anchored on the resource mobilization theory, and the social network theory. Additionally, the study adopted a descriptive research design with target population of 212 NGOs, and a sample of 139, supporting secondary school education in Nairobi County, Kenya. The study adopted random sampling technique to ensure representativeness of the sample. Structured and semi-structured questionnaires were utilized to obtain quantitative and qualitative data from participants. To confirm the validity and reliability of the research instrument, the researcher conducted a pilot study. For quantitative data, regression analysis was performed to investigate the connection between variables. The data was analysed using descriptive statistics, including frequencies, percentages, and averages. Quantitative data was presented using tabulations, bar graphs, and pie charts. Tables were used to represent frequencies, percentages, means, and standard deviations. A multivariate regression model was used to estimate the relative relevance of each variable in the research. Findings reveal significant correlations between resource mobilization strategies and operational efficiency in Nairobi County's secondary school support NGOs. Diversified self-production, constituent-centric mobilization, collaborative co-optation, and strategic patronage strategies were found to positively influence operational efficiency, as indicated by both descriptive and inferential statistics. Specifically, the adoption of these strategies was associated with improved resource utilization, enhanced partnerships, and greater technological integration, contributing to more effective program implementation. The recommendations emphasize the importance of leveraging these strategies to enhance operational efficiency, advocating for the development of tailored training programs, increased investment in technology infrastructure, and the establishment of strategic partnerships. Moreover, policymakers are urged to create supportive regulatory frameworks and allocate sufficient resources to facilitate the implementation of these recommendations, ensuring sustained improvement in the educational support provided by NGOs in Nairobi County. The limitations of the study included the unwillingness by some respondents to participate in the study; the focus on 212 NGOs supporting secondary school education in Nairobi County; and the concentration on only four resource mobilisation strategies.