Dependent Care Programs and Performance of Constitutional Commissions in Kenya: Moderating Effect of Demographic Characteristics

Aim: The study aimed to assess the relationship between dependent care programs and the performance of Constitutional Commissions in Kenya. Methods: The study adopted a descriptive survey design. A population of 5,679 was targeted in the 13 Constitutional Commissions in Kenya. A purposive sampling technique was used to obtain the respondents. A sample size of 195 managers was selected from the constitutional commissions in Kenya. Primary data was collected through a questionnaire and structured personal interviews. Drop-and-pick method was used to administer copies of the questionnaire. Secondary data was obtained through document analysis. Descriptive statistical tools including frequencies, percentages, mean, and standard deviation were used. Qualitative data was analyzed thematically for the objectives of the study. Inferential statistical tools such as correlation analysis and regression analysis were used. ANOVA test was done to determine the statistical significance of each variable. Results: The findings were presented in tables. The study revealed a weak but positive relationship between performance and dependent care programs. This shows that providing dependent care programs results in improved performance of Constitutional Commissions. The study concluded that there is an absence of dependent care programs, lactation stations, lactation breaks, phased return from maternity leave and child care centers in Constitutional Commissions in Kenya. Recommendations: The study recommends Commissions to pool resources and establish common facilities such as child care centre facilities. Most commissions are located in the city centre or nearby regions making it possible to pool resources in a cost-saving measure and will ensure the sustainability of programs. The study also recommended Commissions to study their employees’ demographic data such as income levels, occupation, number of children, and generation groups to enable them to make informed decisions to enhance employees' work-life balance.