Influence of Democratic Leadership Style on the Performance of Agricultural Enterprises in Kenya

A performance evaluation of agricultural enterprises in Kenya was conducted to assess the influence of democratic leadership style. The assessment of agricultural enterprises’ performance in Kenya encompassed both financial and non-financial indicators. The overarching aim of the research was to assess the influence of democratic leadership style on the performance of agricultural enterprises in Kenya. The study was guided by the Systems Theory, Path Goal Theory, and Transformational Leadership Theory. The study evaluated the influence of Democratic leadership style on the Performance of Agricultural Enterprises in Kenya. Explanatory sequential mixed methods approach was adopted using cross-sectional survey design to collect quantitative and qualitative data. Quantitative data were gathered using closed-ended questionnaires, while qualitative data were gathered using interview guides and focused group discussion guides. A stratified random sample of 222 leaders and employees was selected from a population of 525 leaders and employees drawn from a census of 105 agricultural enterprises for the quantitative study. Qualitative data drew a sample of 40 participants. Quantitative data was analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics as provided for in Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) Version 28.0.1. The overall findings of the study show that agricultural enterprises in Kenya perform better under democratic leadership style. The study recommends the implementation of Democratic Leadership Style by governments, donors, and capacity building organizations to enhance the performance of agricultural enterprises in Kenya.