Assessing the effectiveness of conflict management in local government authorities performance

Abstract

This study sought to assess the effectiveness of mnflict managr:rrv:ritIn I ofal Authorities performance using a case study of 'Tabora Municipal Coundl (J rar•rrrr.rir,± study sought to determine employees' perceptions on the conflict management. 9; the various conflict management strategies employed to r p 10;rrr loyed by the council and to investigatr! rxxf:r,t management initiatives challenges hindering the performance of Tabora Municipal Couhr,11 Conflict resolution theory and organizational behaviour theory were employed This study employed a case study research design and utilized a mixed research approach. The population of this study consisted of 411 employees selected using a combination of purposive sampling and simple random sampling techniques. In this study, prim3r/ data for this study were collected through a combination of questionnaires and interviews wft! ,3 secondary data were also collected through document review. Quantitative data ypEare analysed using descriptive statistics facilitated by SPSS version 26 while qualitative data were analyzed using content analysis techniques. The study revealed that the council effectively addresses workplace conflicts to a moderate extent, ensuring that conflicts are resolved in fair and unbiased manner. Furthermore, findings strongly support the prevalence of collaborative problem-solving in conflict resolution, coupled with a hierarchical approach to conflict management within the council. However, the researcher identified signif:cant hindrances to conflict management initiatives, including inadequate training, limited resources, and communication breakdowns, As a recommendation, it is advised that council est&ish a dedicated task force or committee responsible for monitoring and addressing these chYerges in conflict management initiatives. Additionally, future research should explore the ro:e ot technology, such as conflict management software and digital platforms, in enhancIng coect resolution processes and, consequently, bolstering the overall pettonnsince government authorities.