Factors Influencing Employee Satisfaction at the National Police Service in Kenya: A Case of Athi River Sub-County

Abstract

This study investigated the factors influencing employee satisfaction within the National Police Service (NPS) in Kenya, focusing on Athi River Sub-County in Machakos County. The objectives were; to determine the influence of work environment on employee satisfaction among police employees in Athi River Sub-County, assess the effects of leadership styles on employee satisfaction among police employees in Athi River Sub-County, establish the effects of compensation and benefits on employee satisfaction among police employees in Athi River Sub-County and to examine the influence of training and development on employee satisfaction among police employees in Athi River Sub-County. The study was grounded in Herzberg’s Two-Factor Theory, Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs, and the Job Characteristics Model. Employing a mixed-methods design underpinned by pragmatism, the study targeted 530 NPS employees across various units. A sample of 106 officers was selected using stratified and proportionate sampling. Data collection involved structured questionnaires for 85 officers and semi-structured interviews with 10 senior officers. Quantitative data was analyzed using SPSS, while qualitative responses underwent thematic analysis. The work environment was a major concern, with 80% of respondents emphasizing fairness as essential, yet 54% felt promotions were unjustly distributed. Leadership styles had a significant impact, with 80% favoring transformational leadership and 64% criticizing autocratic approaches. The study concluded that systemic issues undermine employee satisfaction in the NPS and called for comprehensive reforms. Key recommendations included leadership development programs, revised compensation structures, equitable training access, and transparent promotion systems.