Asian Basic and Applied Research Journal

Wildlife conservancies play a significant role in biodiversity conservation, sustainable land management and community livelihoods in Kenya. However, their performance is affected by operational, financial and governance challenges. Despite the potential importance of strategic leadership in addressing these challenges, limited empirical evidence exists on how specific strategic leadership practices relate to the performance of wildlife conservancies in Taita Taveta County, Kenya. This study examined the relationship between strategic leadership practices and the performance of wildlife conservancies in Taita Taveta County, Kenya. Specifically, the study assessed the influence of visionary leadership, strategic decision-making, capacity building and stakeholder engagement on conservancy performance. A descriptive cross-sectional research design was adopted, and data were collected from respondents drawn from conservancy governance and management structures using a structured questionnaire. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation analysis and multiple regression analysis. The findings indicated that strategic leadership practices and conservancy performance were generally rated at moderate levels. Correlation analysis revealed positive and statistically significant relationships between each leadership practice and conservancy performance. However, in the multiple regression model, strategic decision-making and capacity building made statistically significant independent contributions to conservancy performance, whereas visionary leadership and stakeholder engagement did not make statistically significant independent contributions when the practices were considered simultaneously. The study concludes that strategic leadership practices are associated with conservancy performance, although their individual contributions differ. It recommends strengthening evidence-based strategic decision-making, continuous staff training and professional development, the communication of organisational vision, and structured stakeholder engagement. The findings provide insights for conservancy managers, boards, conservation partners and policymakers seeking to strengthen the effectiveness and sustainability of wildlife conservancies in Taita Taveta County.