Influence of Strategic Partnerships on Service Delivery of Public Water Service Providers in Kenya

Purpose: This study examined how strategic partnerships affect the service delivery of public water providers in Kenya, aiming to improve access to safe, reliable, and affordable water. Methodology: The study employed a mixed-methods research design, integrating both quantitative and qualitative approaches. The quantitative phase involved a survey of 184 personnel from 46 randomly selected public water providers, with data analyzed through regression analysis to examine relationships between variables such as strategic partnership, resource distribution, diversification, and innovativeness. Following this, qualitative data were collected via semi-structured interviews with key stakeholders to provide in-depth contextual insights. The target population consisted of 88 public water service providers, with a sample size determined using the Krejcie and Morgan formula to ensure representativeness. Findings: The data analysis revealed a significant positive influence of strategic partnerships on service delivery outcomes. The regression analysis (F = 94.509, p = 0.000) demonstrated that strategic collaborations are crucial in improving service quality, reliability, and efficiency among public water providers in Kenya. These findings highlight the importance of fostering strategic alliances to address infrastructural, operational, and financial challenges faced by the sector. Unique Contributions to Theory, Policy, and Practice: Theoretically, this study extends the Resource-Based View (RBV) framework by applying it to the public utility sector, emphasizing strategic partnerships as valuable resources that enhance organizational performance. Policy-wise, the findings support the need for an enabling regulatory environment that encourages collaboration, innovation, and digital transformation within the water sector. Public water providers should strengthen partnerships to enhance service delivery, financial sustainability, and access to safe, affordable water in Kenya.