Abstract:
Performance management systems are essential tools for improving employee efficiency,
accountability, and motivation in public organizations. In Tanzania, the Public Employees
Performance Management Information System (PEPMIS) was introduced to promote
transparency, enhance goal alignment, and strengthen accountability among public
servants. However, limited empirical evidence exists on its effectiveness in improving job
performance within regional hospitals. This study assessed the effectiveness of PEPMIS
in enhancing employee job performance at Mawenzi Regional Hospital. The specific
objectives were: to identify the influence of PEPMIS on employee goal setting and
alignment; to examine the influence of PEPMIS on employee motivation and engagement;
and to evaluate the role of PEPMIS in promoting accountability and transparency in
employee job performance. A qualitative research design guided by the interpretivist
philosophy was adopted. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews
involving 25 participants, including hospital administrators, healthcare workers, and IT
personnel. Thematic analysis was employed to identify patterns and meanings emerging
from the participants’ experiences. The findings revealed that PEPMIS enhances clarity
in goal setting, promotes fairness in appraisals, and strengthens accountability through
transparent performance tracking. However, challenges such as limited feedback, weak
digital infrastructure, and inadequate managerial training hinder its full potential. The
study concludes that PEPMIS has positively influenced employee job performance at
Mawenzi Regional Hospital, but sustained improvements require managerial
commitment, reliable ICT infrastructure, and continuous user training. It recommends
capacity-building programs for hospital leaders, integration of feedback mechanisms, and
enhancement of digital infrastructure to optimize PEPMIS implementation
