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International Journal of Management and Leadership
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International Journal of Management and Leadership Studies
2025; 6(i): 791-804
ISSN: 2311 7575
EFFECT OF GENDER DIVERSITY ON PERFORMANCE OF SELECTED STATE CORPORATIONS IN KENYA
Nyamai Maureen Mwende and Dr. Angeline Wambugu
Published: 01 December, 2025 Volume: 6 Issue: i
Keywords: Gender Diversity, Organizational Performance, State-Owned Corporations (SOCs
This research examines the significance of board diversity on the performance of selected state-owned corporations in Kenya, highlighting a critical gap where over 30 percent of these organizations lack equality in gender, age, race, and education, which is essential for fostering innovation, enhancing decision-making, and adhering to the Mwongozo Code of Governance. Prior research often focuses on specific commercial banks or aspects of diversity, neglecting a comprehensive examination of all inclusion policies and the impact of local cultural factors. The primary objective is to assess the influence of boardlevel diversity on organizational outcomes, encompassing diversity in gender, race, age, and. The primary target population comprises personnel across 14 SOCs, including board members and senior management, due to their unique insights into organizational operations. A sample of 210 representative respondents, comprising board members and senior managers, was selected using a census approach, ensuring gender balance. The primary instrument was a structured questionnaire utilizing a five-point Likert scale, followed by an assessment of equipment consistency and validation of content through a pilot study involving 10 percent (2 of 14 SOCs). The data was collected online over 14 days, with the assistance of research assistants, to enhance response rates. The study established that gender diversity (β = 0.218, p = 0.003) significantly enhance organizational performance. It concluded that inclusive and diverse boards foster innovation, accountability, and effective decision-making in state-owned corporations. Recommendations highlighted the need for targeted diversity policies, leadership training, succession planning, and continuous monitoring to optimize governance. Future studies should employ longitudinal designs, explore moderating factors like leadership style and organizational culture, and incorporate qualitative insights. Expanding research beyond SOCs to private firms and SMEs, while considering digital transformation and workforce mobility, would improve applicability.
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