Utilizing strategic communication to manage organizational social stressor at the Ministry of Agriculture and livestock Development, Kenya

Abstract: Purpose: The main objective of this study is to establish the influence of strategic communication in managing organizational social stressors. The specific strategy of communication that is utilized is feedback mechanism. Materials and methods: A review of literature and theories, such as agenda-setting theory and social cognitive theory, was utilized to address the above objective. The study's target population consisted of 1,896 staff members at the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock Development in Kenya, while the sample size was determined at 330 using the Taro Yamane formula. The sample size was stratified based on organizational hierarchy to form three strata, namely, entry-level and supervisory-level, and senior management-level staff. Data was then collected quantitatively using questionnaires. After the data was collected, inferential analysis was conducted and conclusions made. Contribution of the study to the scientific community and policy makers: The study findings provided actionable insights and recommendations for policymakers, communication professionals, and organizational leaders on how strategic communication can act as a central non-clinical organizational intervention for managing organizational social stressors before they escalate into mental health crises. This will contribute to enhanced organizational effectiveness and employees' well-being in the context of contemporary mental health challenges.