THE ROLE OF LEADERSHIP STYLE IN ENHANCING EMPLOYEE COMMITMENT AT MBEYA URBAN WATER SUPPLY AND SANITATION AUTHORITY, TANZANIA

Author

Lugano Mathias


Abstract

 This study examined the role of leadership style in enhancing employee commitment at Mbeya Urban Water Supply and Sanitation Authority (Mbeya UWSA), Tanzania. A mixed-methods approach and descriptive cross-sectional design were used. The study population comprised 195 employees. Approximately 130 respondents were initially determined using Yamane’s formula; 93 usable questionnaires were obtained and complemented by interviews with nine key informants. Quantitative data were analysed using SPSS through frequencies and percentages, while qualitative data were analysed thematically. Leadership style was assessed through employee involvement in decision-making, communication of organizational goals, fair treatment, supervisory support and motivation, open communication, and recognition of employee contributions. The findings indicate generally weak and uneven experiences of leadership. Positive responses were 35.5% for decision-making participation, 30.1% for goal communication, 28.0% for fair treatment, 16.1% for supervisory support and motivation, 22.6% for open communication, and 23.7% for recognition. Qualitative evidence showed that participation, guidance, feedback, appreciation, and consultation existed in some departments but were not consistently experienced. The study concludes that leadership style is important for employee commitment, but its contribution depends on consistent implementation across departments. It recommends stronger participative leadership, communication, supervisory support, fairness, employee voice, systematic recognition, and leadership development.



Keywords

Leadership style; employee commitment; participative leadership; supervisory support; public sector; Mbeya UWSA; Tanzania.



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References


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