Strategic Planning and Performance of Non-Governmental Organizations in South Sudan
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Date
2025-11
Authors
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Journal ISSN
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Publisher
Kenyatta University
Abstract
The influence of non-governmental organizations on societal change is widely recognized. Their role becomes even more critical in nations experiencing political instability. To effectively fulfill its mission and attain desired outcomes, an organization must engage in strategic planning. This process primarily serves to steer and manage operations by thoroughly analyzing the obstacles and dynamics within both the internal and external contexts. This will lead to extremely efficient organizational management. Nonprofits operating in South Sudan are devoid of early warning systems, conflict resolution skills, and a wealth of data on the circumstances that can lead to violence. Examining how strategic planning affects the operational efficacy of NGOs in South Sudan is the main goal of this study. The study specifically intends to investigate how resource distribution, managerial decisions, and stakeholder engagement, strategic direction, and organizational performance interrelate within the NGO context in South Sudan. A descriptive research approach was adopted to provide insights into the patterns and attributes of the selected variables. The intended population for this study comprises senior personnel working within the operations, finance, human resources, policy, and program divisions. Additionally, a preliminary survey will be administered to 12 participants drawn from two NGOs located in Juba, accounting for 10% of the proposed sample. The pilot test ensures the clarity and effectiveness of research instruments, identifying ambiguities that could affect respondent comprehension. It evaluates instrument validity and reliability, refining research protocols, sample recruitment strategies, and data collection tools. Validity is confirmed through expert review and test-retest procedures, ensuring accurate measurement of study variables. Reliability is assessed using pre-testing, where the pilot units represent one-tenth of the sample size. The Cronbach Coefficient will validate the reliability of the instruments, with a benchmark of 0.7 for acceptable dependability. The pilot study aids in refining the research design, ensuring suitability, and enhancing accuracy before the full-scale investigation begins. This research obtained information from senior personnel working in departments such as operations, finance, human resources, policy, and program management. The study relied exclusively on primary data, which was collected through structured questionnaires administered to selected Non-Governmental Organizations, along with targeted interviews focusing on key performance indicators. Given the hybrid nature of the data, a combination of statistical techniques and thematic analysis was employed. Thematic analysis facilitated the comparison and synthesis of participant responses in alignment with the study’s objectives. Quantitative findings were systematically organized using charts and tables, consistent with the underlying research hypotheses. Each visual representation was preceded by a descriptive overview, followed by the researcher’s analytical commentary or subjective interpretation. The results showed that while management choices (p = 0.552) do not significantly affect an organization's performance, stakeholder involvement (p = 0.00), resource allocation (p = 0.033), and direction setting (p = 0.002) do. To achieve and sustain the intended performance levels, it was advised that NGOs maximize their strategic planning options.
Description
A Research Project Submitted to the School of Business, Economics and Tourism in Partial Fulfilment of the Requirements for the Award of the Degree of Master of Business Administration (Strategic Management) of Kenyatta University, November 2025.
Supervisor
1. Dr. Elishiba Murigi