Intra-Agency Coordination Practices on Performance of National Police Service in Kenya

This study explores the influence of intra-agency coordination practices on the performance of the National Police Service (NPS) in Kenya. Focusing on key factors such as administrative decisions, deployment and transfers, leadership and accountability, and the hierarchical structure within the agency, the research aims to identify how these elements impact operational efficiency. A total of 384 questionnaires were distributed to NPS officers, with 342 valid responses, yielding a robust response rate of 89%. The findings reveal that delays and lack of clarity in deployment decisions, along with disruptive transfers, negatively affect coordination during joint operations. Furthermore, leadership at various levels plays a critical role in promoting effective coordination, though mixed responses regarding accountability indicate inconsistencies in the enforcement of coordination practices. The hierarchical structure of the NPS, while ensuring clear command lines, also contributes to delays and communication breakdowns across multiple levels. Statistical analysis confirmed the reliability and validity of the data, with a Cronbach’s alpha value of 0.85 and an R-squared value of 0.58, indicating a strong relationship between intra-agency coordination and NPS performance. Based on these findings, the study recommends improving communication, leadership training, and optimizing the hierarchical structure to enhance coordination and operational effectiveness. These improvements are essential for the NPS to effectively address security challenges and enhance public safety in Kenya. The research contributes to a deeper understanding of organizational coordination within security agencies and offers practical recommendations for improving the performance of the NPS.