Strategic Vision and Performance of Youth-Owned Businesses in Kenya
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.47941/hrlj.4026Keywords:
Strategic Vision, Youth-Owned Businesses, Growth ProspectsAbstract
Purpose: This study sought to examine the effect of strategic vision on the performance of youth-owned businesses in Kenya. This study was anchored by: Transformational Leadership Theory. A descriptive research design was used, targeting 47,378 licensed youth entrepreneurs in the wholesale and retail trade sector in Nairobi, Mombasa, Makueni, Nyeri, Bomet, Bungoma, Siaya and Mandera counties.
Methodology: Using systematic random sampling, the sample size consisted 397 youth-owned enterprises. Data was collected through structured questionnaires. A pilot study, involving 39 entrepreneurs (10% of the sample) was conducted to assess the reliability and validity of the data collection tools. Quantitative and qualitative data were analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics, with regression analysis used to assess relationships between variables and test the study’s hypotheses. The results were presented using tables, graphs, and histograms to provide a clear visual representation and facilitate interpretation.
Findings: The results showed that strategic vision explained 33.9% of the variation in performance of youth-owned businesses (R² = 0.339). The regression model was significant and a good fit (F(1, 354) = 181.702, p = 0.000), with the coefficient of 0.369, implying than 1-unit increase in strategic vision improved performance by 0.369 units (β = 0.369, t = 3.884, p = 0.000).
Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: The study concludes that youth-owned businesses in Kenya can strengthen their strategic direction and growth prospects by developing and consistently communicating a clear strategic vision. Such a vision should articulate long-term goals, market positioning, and growth pathways, as this provides strategic direction, improving decision-making, and aligns organizational efforts towards common objectives.
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Copyright (c) 2026 Judy Chelangat Kimeto, Dr. Samson Nyangau’ Paul, Dr. Paul Kariuki, Dr. Emmy Rotich
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