AN EXAMINATION INTO THE EFFECT OF EMPLOYEE RETENTION ON THE GROWTH OF LOCAL GOVERNMENT ADMINISTRATION IN CAMEROON

CHAPTER ONE INTRODUCTION 1.1 Background of the Study Employee retention has become a major concern for many organizations today, particularly within non-governmental organizations. Keeping employees committed and satisfied involves creating a supportive work environment, engaging them in decision-making, offering attractive compensation, and recognizing outstanding performance. Despite these efforts, many organizations are struggling to retain their workforce. As highlighted by Samuel (2020), the ongoing growth of the hospitality sector has made the recruitment and retention of staff even more critical. In today’s competitive work environment, job security remains uncertain for many employees, often depending on factors like contract duration, labor legislation, and collective bargaining practices. Research has consistently shown that high staff turnover destabilizes the workforce, increases HR costs, and undermines operational efficiency (Okafor, Ifekwem, & Adeyi, 2019). Studies focusing on private organizations reveal similar patterns. For example, Adewoye, Oyerinde, and Adele (2017) found that the rate of staff attrition within private enterprises in Cameroon continues to rise. In Cameroon, local government administrations represent the tier of governance closest to the people. These entities are tasked with delivering essential services, promoting development at the grassroots level, and improving community well-being. In recent years, the country has made significant strides toward decentralization—transferring more authority and responsibility to local governments to better drive socio-economic progress (Tangwa, 2020). However, despite these advancements, local governments still face persistent challenges such as limited resources, lack of autonomy, and bureaucratic bottlenecks. Among these challenges, employee retention stands out as a pressing issue. High turnover rates can disrupt institutional continuity and hinder the delivery of critical services like healthcare, education, infrastructure, and general administration (Ndoundou-Hock, 2018). Several factors are contributing to the frequent loss of employees in local government institutions, including low pay, limited opportunities for career advancement, and poor working conditions (Nkou, 2017). Moreover, political interference and instability at the local government level make it even harder to retain skilled and experienced professionals (Nkwebo, 2015). The importance of staff retention in ensuring the smooth operation of local governments cannot be overstated. Retaining capable personnel is essential for effective policy implementation, sustainable development planning, and high-quality service delivery. Yet, the limited research available on this issue makes it difficult for policymakers to develop effective strategies to improve retention and strengthen local governance. This study, therefore, aims to assess how staff retention influences the development of local government administration in Cameroon. The goal is to enhance local government effectiveness and contribute to Cameroon’s long-term socio-economic growth. 1.2 Statement of the Problem Local government plays a crucial role in Cameroon’s socio-economic development, serving as the primary provider of essential services, infrastructure, and governance at the grassroots. However, these local institutions are grappling with the challenge of retaining qualified and experienced staff—an issue that can severely compromise their performance and effectiveness. Retaining staff is vital for the stability and continuity of local government functions. High staff turnover not only disrupts policy implementation but also diminishes institutional memory and weakens service delivery (Birhanu, 2016). Frequent changes in personnel can hinder long-term project planning and reduce public confidence in local governance systems. Although staff retention is a critical aspect of local government performance, there is a noticeable lack of in-depth research into its impact in the Cameroonian context. Existing literature points to factors such as inadequate pay, restricted career development opportunities, and poor working conditions as reasons for staff turnover in local governments (Amin, 2016; Mbeng, 2019). Still, a more comprehensive understanding is needed to address these challenges effectively. This study, therefore, seeks to evaluate the effects of staff retention on the development and performance of local government administration in Cameroon. It will explore the link between employee retention and institutional performance, aiming to identify the main causes of staff attrition and recommend practical solutions. This research is crucial for improving local governance and ensuring sustainable development across communities in Cameroon. 1.3 Objective of the Study The overall objective of this research is to assess the impact of staff retention on the development of local government administration in Cameroon. The specific objectives are to: i. Examine the current level of staff retention within Cameroon’s local government administration. ii. Evaluate how staff retention affects the efficiency and effectiveness of local government operations. iii. Identify the key factors influencing staff retention in local government institutions. iv. Recommend strategies to improve staff retention for better local government development in Cameroon. 1.4 Research Questions This study seeks to answer the following research questions: i. What is the current level of staff retention in local government administration in Cameroon? ii. In what ways does staff retention affect the efficiency and effectiveness of local government operations? iii. What are the main factors influencing staff retention in local government institutions in Cameroon? iv. What strategies can be proposed to enhance staff retention and foster local government development? 1.5 Significance of the Study This research will be valuable in several ways: Policy Development and Implementation: Understanding what drives staff retention will help local government leaders craft policies and work environments that reduce turnover and retain skilled workers. This stability is essential for maintaining institutional effectiveness. Academic Contribution: The study will also contribute to the academic field of public administration by providing insight into how human resource management practices influence governance. It may inspire further research into related areas, particularly within the context of Cameroon’s local governments. 1.6 Scope of the Study This research focuses specifically on the impact of staff retention on the development of local government administration in Cameroon. It will empirically analyze the current level of employee retention, assess how retention influences the effectiveness and efficiency of local governments, explore the factors contributing to staff turnover, and propose solutions to improve retention. 1.7 Limitations of the Study As with any academic endeavor, this study encountered a few limitations. Financial constraints limited the researcher’s ability to access more comprehensive materials and conduct widespread data collection through tools such as surveys, interviews, and online research. Consequently, the sample size used was modest. Additionally, the researcher had to balance this project with other academic responsibilities, which reduced the amount of time that could be dedicated solely to the study. 1.8 Definition of Terms Staff Retention: This refers to an organization’s ability to keep its employees, particularly those who are skilled and experienced, over a long period. It includes strategies that foster employee satisfaction, engagement, and loyalty. Local Government Administration: This is the management and coordination of public services and development efforts by local government entities, such as municipal or district councils. It involves resource distribution, policy implementation, and interaction with local communities. Development: In this context, development refers to improvements in the performance, infrastructure, and service delivery of local governments, leading to better responsiveness to community needs and overall socio-economic progress. REFERENCES Samuel, M.T, M. (2020.) 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