Perception of local government authorities’ stakeholders on centralised recruitment and selection function in Mbeya District council, Tanzania

Abstract

The study focused on the identification of perception of LGA stakeholders on centralized recruitment and selection system in Tanzania. It specifically identifies the reasons for centralized recruitment and selection and furthermore explore the perception of stakeholders. The primary and secondary methods of data collection were employed. Data collected were analysed by using quantitative statistical techniques and presented in percentages and frequency distribution tables. Furthermore qualitative data analysis was conducted where; the collected information was edited and presented using direct quotation. The findings show that the reasons for centralised recruitment and selection were unethical behaviours by the LGAs staff, Lack of meritocracy, ensure equal distribution of human resource, and cost effectiveness in recruitment and selection. Also the results indicated that majority of respondents accepted that the system is good. Finally the researcher sought to identify the causes of such perception, where, Motive for centralisation, solution to self-interest, and Expectation of centralisation were the factors influencing respondent’s positive perceptions. The researcher concluded that, the centralised recruitment and selection is very important for the development of our nation. The system is free from political interference hence results into getting qualified human resource. What is needed more is loyalty and accountability. Following the findings, research recommends that LGAs must be trained on issues relating to recruitment and selection. The role of local government employment boards is very crucial and important. So it will be very important if they will be given more education on their roles, because they are the one who should approve whether the employees recruited fit the demand of the LGA. For example if the employment board will be aware on the roles they should play in LGA they could not perceive that the Secretariat is undermining their functions in any way. This is because the laws states very clearly about the roles of each part and set demarcations in area of jurisdiction. The secretariat as employment agent and the LGA as the employer.