Effect of Board Leadership Structures on Operational Performance of Public Institutions in Rwanda

This study investigates the effect of board leadership structures on the operational performance of public institutions in Rwanda. With growing emphasis on governance and accountability in the public sector, board characteristics such as size, independence, duality, and diversity are increasingly scrutinized for their impact on institutional efficiency and effectiveness. The study adopted a descriptive and explorative design since its main purpose was to explain the effect of corporate board leadership practices on performance in public institutions in Rwanda. The target population for the study was 214 managers from 10 public institutions in Rwanda. Stratified random sampling technique was used to get a sample of 140 respondents who were selected from the top management and middle managers’ staff. Data for the study was collected by use of questionnaires, interviews and observation using descriptive and inferential statistics to establish the relationship between the dependent and independent variables. It was expected that the results of the study would assist the top management of the institutions, as well as other stakeholders, to understand the effect of board leadership practices on governance performance in public institutions in Rwanda. Data collected was analyzed through SPSS version 21. Data analysis involved statistical computations for averages, percentages, and correlation and regression analysis. Ordinary least squares (OLS) regression method of analysis was adopted to determine the inferential statistics. By assessing various dimensions of board structure, such as diversity, expertise, independence, and leadership styles, this research contributes to understanding how governance practices shape the effectiveness and efficiency of public institutions. The findings provide valuable insights for policymakers, organizational leaders, and stakeholders seeking to enhance governance mechanisms and optimize performance outcomes in the public sector of Rwanda. The findings reveals significant insights into the perceptions of respondents regarding the impact of board leadership composition on the performance of public institutions in Rwanda. Notably, the results indicate strong agreement among respondents regarding the positive influence of diverse skills and expertise among board members on decision-making processes. Similarly, the inclusion of independent directors is perceived to enhance board oversight effectiveness, reflecting the importance of independent oversight for governance effectiveness. Moreover, respondents recognize the importance of gender diversity on boards for fostering inclusive decision-making environments. Additionally, the understanding of industry and market trends among board members is seen to positively affect strategic planning capabilities. Regression analysis further confirms the significant relationship between board leadership composition and the performance of public institutions in Rwanda. The findings reveal that board independence and diversity have a significant positive influence on operational performance, while board size and leadership duality have mixed effects. The study concludes with recommendations for strengthening board governance practices to enhance the effectiveness of public institutions in Rwanda.