Evaluation on the Role of Leaders’ Intellectual Stimulation in the Management of Street Children Organizations in Kanduyi Sub-County in Bungoma County, Kenya

This study examined the role of leaders' intellectual stimulation in managing street children’s organizations in Kanduyi Sub-County, Bungoma County, Kenya. Using a quantitative cross-sectional research design, data was collected from 164 management staff across 10 organizations working with street children through structured questionnaires based on the Multi-factor Leadership Questionnaire (MLQ-6S). The study employed stratified proportionate sampling and simple random sampling techniques for respondent selection. Data analysis utilized descriptive statistics and linear regression analysis using SPSS version 26. The findings revealed that intellectual stimulation significantly influences the management of street children’s organizations, with a moderate positive correlation (r = 0.409, p < 0.001). The regression analysis showed that intellectual stimulation accounts for 16.7% of the variance in organizational management effectiveness (R² = 0.167). Key findings indicated that leaders frequently seek new approaches to old problems (mean = 4.34), promote critical thinking (mean = 3.90), and stimulate innovative problem-solving (mean = 3.88). The study concludes that intellectual stimulation is a crucial component of transformational leadership that enhances organizational effectiveness in managing street children’s programs. The research recommends leadership development programs focusing on intellectual stimulation, mentorship initiatives, and inclusive policies to leverage diverse perspectives in addressing complex challenges faced by street children’s organizations. Keywords: Intellectual stimulation, transformational leadership, street children, and organizational management