Leadership styles and economic development of Kenya, since 1963

Larry Iswekha Chiteyi; Omondi Bernard Ouma; Pontian Godfrey Okoth; Kizito Muchanga Lusambili

doi:10.51867/AQSSR.3.3.42

Authors

Larry Iswekha Chiteyi Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology, Kenya Author https://orcid.org/0000-0001-7656-6973
Omondi Bernard Ouma Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology, Kenya Author https://orcid.org/0000-0002-7766-0029
Pontian Godfrey Okoth Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology, Kenya Author https://orcid.org/0000-0003-2813-6527
Kizito Muchanga Lusambili Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology, Kenya Author https://orcid.org/0000-0002-5430-4558

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.51867/AQSSR.3.3.42

Keywords:

Economic Policy, Governance, Kenya, Institutional Reform, Presidential Leadership, Political Economy, Postcolonial State

Abstract

This study looks at how the president of Kenya has led the country since it became independent in 1963. It also looks at how different presidents have made decisions. The study had four specific objectives: to look at the leadership style of Jomo Kenyatta and how it affected the Kenyan economy to examine Daniel Moi's leadership style and how it impacted the economy; to study Mwai Kibaki’s leadership and how it affected economic development in Kenya from 2002 to 2013 and to look at the leadership styles of presidents in Kenya since 2013 and how they have impacted the economy. The study used an approach and looked at old records, spoke to people who lived through it, and read what other scholars have written. It examined how presidents Jomo Kenyatta, Daniel arap Moi, Mwai Kibaki, Uhuru Kenyatta, and William Ruto have led the country and made decisions. The study used two ideas: the Great Man Theory and the theory of political time. These ideas help us understand how presidents have made decisions and governed Kenya. The study found that the way the president leads has changed over time. Sometimes the president has a lot of power and control; sometimes they focus on reform. Sometimes they try to make the people happy. The study talked to people who have experienced presidents and leadership styles. It used techniques to choose the people to talk to and ended up speaking with 16 people. The study shows that economic decisions are not just based on ideas but on the president's leadership style, their power, and the country's institutions. It looked at what the people said and found patterns and themes. The study found that when the constitution changes, the president still has a lot of power. The economic strategies have also changed, from helping the rich to trying to reduce debt and help the poor. Each president has tried to grow the economy and make the country stronger. The results have been different. The study is important because it shows how the president's leadership affects the economy and the country's development. It found that Kenya's development has been shaped more by the president's influence than by policies. This helps us understand why it is hard to achieve development that includes everyone and is sustainable. The study results are important for understanding how Kenya and other African countries can achieve governance and development. It shows that the president's leadership is crucial in shaping the country's economy and development path. The study's findings can help us learn from Kenya's experiences. Apply them to other countries.

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