An investigation into the factors affecting corporate social responsibility among public organizations in Kenya : a case of KPLC CO.

Abstract

This study sought to look into the factors that influence corporate social responsibility at Kenya Power and Lighting Company. This was done using the stakeholder model. Literature reviewed provided a discussion of the historical background of CSR function and its recent trends. The study adopted a descriptive research design with a target population of 288 employees of KPLC based in Nairobi Area. Stratified sampling was used with a 25% sample rate obtaining a sample of 72 employees. Closed ended questionnaires were used to collect primary data as well as secondary data. From the data collected, 82% of the respondents had worked in the organization for more than 5 years. Ninety seven percent (97%) said that the company had a CSR policy, which dealt with issues like environmental conservation, health and safety of their employees, education for the community and the employees as well as the health of the community that they served. Thirty-eight respondents indicated that the operations of the company are affected by the CSR, which was carried out regularly as said by seventy six percent (76%) of the respondents. Questionnaire was used to collect data, which was analysed using descriptive and non-parametric methods. The study found out that policy, concern for employees, customer, environment and community affects CSR at KPLC. However, there is need to establish to what extend do each of these factors affect CSR at the company, a gap which needs further research On the factors influencing CSR at KPLC, 62% said that the society influenced significantly, ninety two percent (92%) said that the nature of products of the company influenced CSR and another seventy seven percent (77%) said yes to health and safety, while for environment sixty three percent (63%) said yes it did influence. For poverty eradication, forty six (46) of the respondents said that they were not sure whether it influenced CSR. The study recommends that the company should set up a fully fledged CSR department and establish defined CSR programmes aimed at addressing its stakeholders concerns.