Effect of Decentralization Frameworks on Service Delivery in Devolved Governments of Kenya

Table of Contents

1.1 Background of the Study

1.1.1 Global perspectives of decentralization frameworks

1.1.2 Regional perspectives of decentralization frameworks

1.1.3 Local perspective of decentralization frameworks

1.2 Statement of the Problem

1.3 Objectives of the Study

1.3.1 General Objective

1.3.2 Specific Objectives

1.4 Research Hypotheses

1.5 Justification of the Study

1.6 Scope of the Study

2.1 Introduction

2.2 Theoretical Review

2.2.1 The Soufflé Theory of Decentralization

2.2.2 The Social Capital Theory

2.2.3 The Principal Agent Theory

2.2.4 The Accountability Theory

2.3 Conceptual Framework

2.3.1 Political Framework

2.3.2 Fiscal Framework

2.3.3 Administrative Framework

2.3.4 Economic Framework

2.3.5. Regulatory Framework

2.3.6. Service delivery

2.4 Empirical Review

2.4.1. Political Framework

2.4.2. Administrative Framework

2.4.3. Fiscal Framework

2.4.4. Economic Framework

2.5. A Critique of Existing Literature Relevant to the Study

2.6. Summary of Literature Reviewed

2.7. Research Gaps

3.1 Introduction

3.2 Research Design

3.2.1 Research Philosophy

3.3 Target Population

3.4 Sample Size and Sampling Techniques

3.4.1. Sampling Frame

3.4.2. Sample and Sampling Techniques

3.5 Data Research Instruments

3.6 Data Collection Procedure

3.7. Pilot Study

3.7.1 Validity of Research Instrument

3.7.2. Reliability of Research Instrument

3.8. Summary of measure of study variables

3.9. Data Analysis and Presentation

3.9.1. Factor Analysis

3.9.2. Normality Test

3.9.3. Multicollinearity

3.9.4 Autocorrelation

3.9.5. Statistical Modelling

3.9.6. Confidence Levels for Statistical Testing

3.9.7. Moderated Multiple Regression Models

Research Objectives and Focus Areas

This study aims to examine the impact of various decentralization frameworks—specifically political, fiscal, administrative, and economic—on service delivery within Kenya's devolved government system, while accounting for the moderating influence of the regulatory framework.

• Analysis of fiscal decentralization and its impact on public service efficiency.
• Evaluation of political decentralization and its role in public accountability and decision-making.
• Investigation into administrative decentralization and the capacity of local government structures.
• Assessment of the moderating role of regulatory frameworks in the successful implementation of devolution.

Excerpt from the Book

Summary of Chapters

CHAPTER ONE INTRODUCTION: Provides the research background, statement of the problem, and outlines the specific objectives and research hypotheses related to decentralization in Kenya.

CHAPTER TWO LITERATURE REVIEW: Reviews global and local theories on decentralization, including the Soufflé and Social Capital theories, and presents the conceptual framework for the study.

CHAPTER THREE RESEARCH METHODOLOGY: Details the research design, target population, sampling techniques, data collection instruments, and statistical methods used for analysis.

Keywords

Decentralization, Devolution, Service Delivery, Fiscal Decentralization, Political Framework, Administrative Framework, Regulatory Framework, Kenya, Public Accountability, Governance, Soufflé Theory, Social Capital, Resource Allocation, Economic Growth, Implementation

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary objective of this research?

The primary objective is to determine the effect of decentralization frameworks on service delivery by devolved governments in Kenya.

What are the main thematic areas covered?

The research focuses on four main decentralization frameworks: political, fiscal, administrative, and economic, with the regulatory framework serving as a moderator.

Which research philosophy guides this study?

The study is guided by the positivist philosophy, utilizing scientific processes to test hypotheses regarding the cause-and-effect relationship between decentralization and service delivery.

What is the methodological approach used?

The study employs a mixed-methods approach, using a cross-sectional descriptive survey design to collect both quantitative and qualitative data.

What does the literature review address?

It covers theoretical reviews, empirical studies, and conceptual frameworks linking independent variables of decentralization to the dependent variable of service delivery.

What are the key keywords associated with the study?

Key terms include Decentralization, Devolution, Service Delivery, Fiscal Decentralization, Public Accountability, and Governance.

How does the "Soufflé Theory" apply to this research?

It is used as the primary theoretical framework to explain that successful decentralization requires a precise combination of political, fiscal, and institutional elements to achieve improved service delivery.

How does the study address the moderating role of the regulatory framework?

The study uses moderated multiple regression models to evaluate how regulatory frameworks influence the relationship between decentralization and service delivery.

What is the target population for this research?

The target population consists of citizens in 14 selected counties in Kenya who are eligible to participate in public forums and provide views on the management of their counties.