Strategic Leadership and Commercialization of Research Output: Evidence from Universities in Nairobi County, Kenya

Authors

  • Samson Kibii
    PhD Student, Moi University
  • Ambrose Kemboi
    Department of Management Science and Entrepreneurship, School of Business and Economics, Moi University, Eldoret, Kenya.
  • Yusuf Kibet
    Department of Marketing and Logistics, School of Business and Economics, Moi University, Eldoret, Kenya.

Abstract

Purpose: This study aimed to determine the effect of strategic leadership on the commercialization of research outputs among universities in Nairobi County, Kenya. The study was anchored on the Dynamic Capability Theory.


Material/methods: The study adopted a positivist research philosophy and an explanatory survey research design. The target population comprised 4,166 academic staff drawn from eleven universities in Nairobi County, Kenya, including four public universities and seven private universities. Cluster sampling and simple random sampling were used to select a sample of 356 academic staff. Primary data were collected using structured closed-ended questionnaires. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, including frequencies, percentages, means, and standard deviations. Inferential statistics, including Pearson correlation analysis and multiple linear regression analysis, were used to establish the relationship between strategic leadership and commercialization of research outputs.


Findings: The findings revealed that strategic leadership had a significant effect on the commercialization of research outputs among universities in Nairobi County. The results indicate that universities with stronger strategic leadership practices are better positioned to transform research outputs into marketable products, services, and innovations.


Conclusion: The study concluded that strategic leadership is essential for successful research commercialization in universities. Effective strategic leadership provides clear institutional direction, supports innovation, strengthens capacity building, and promotes collaboration with external partners.


Value: This study provides empirical evidence on the role of strategic leadership in enhancing the commercialization of research outputs among universities in Nairobi County, Kenya. The findings contribute to policy and management practice by demonstrating how strategic leadership can support the transformation of academic research into innovations that contribute to economic and societal development.