Examining the Effect of Policy Compliance on Performance of Public Institutions in South Sudan

Purpose: This study aims to examine how policy compliance influences the performance of the Ministry of Defence and Veteran Affairs in South Sudan, particularly within the context of post-conflict challenges and resource limitations. Methodology: The research employed a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative surveys with 342 respondents (response rate: 85.9%) and qualitative data from 30 key informant interviews using semi-structured protocols. Theoretical frameworks included Institutional Theory, Policy Implementation Theory, and Resource Dependency Theory, which guided measurement development and data interpretation. Quantitative data were analyzed using regression modeling at a 5% significance level. Findings: Quantitative analysis revealed a strong positive correlation (r = 0.692) between policy compliance and organizational performance, with an R² of 0.479, indicating that nearly 48% of performance variability is explained by policy compliance efforts. The findings underscore the importance of systematic evaluation mechanisms in enhancing organizational outcomes. Unique Contribution to Theory, Policy, and Practice: This research provides empirical evidence that systematic Policy Compliance is vital for improving organizational performance and stability in fragile states like South Sudan. It highlights the role of institutional and resource factors in policy effectiveness, offering practical recommendations such as strengthening compliance frameworks, investing in infrastructure, establishing monitoring systems, and stakeholder engagement. Theoretically, it advances understanding of how compliance within complex, resource-constrained environments impacts organizational outcomes and suggests avenues for future research on contextual influences like post-conflict recovery and external support.