Corporate Governance and Financial Performance of Savings and Credit Co-Operatives in Embu County, Kenya
Corporate governance is of great importance for financial performance. Corporate governance issues have attracted public interest in the financial sector both locally and internationally after waves of corporate rip-offs and failures that almost led to loss of confidence in the finance sector. The general objective of this study was to determine the effect of corporate governance on financial performance of Savings and Credit Co-operatives in Kenya. The study adopted a descriptive research design. The study targeted a population of 65 active Savings and credit Co-operatives operating in Embu County. A sample size of 57 Savings and Credit Co-operatives was used in this study. Stratified sampling technique was used to select the sample. Primary data was collected using self-administered semi-structured questionnaires while secondary data was obtained from financial statements and periodicals using a record survey sheet. Pre-testing of research tool was conducted before the actual data collection was carried, to determine the reliability of the questionnaire by use of a Cronbach's alpha, statistical coefficient, while the validity was tested to ensure that the questions in the questionnaire provides adequate coverage to the investigative questions. Correlation and multiple regression analysis was used to establish the relationship between independent and dependent variables. The study findings indicated that corporate governance positively affected the financial performance. In specific the board composition and corporate risk management for SACCOs had a positive effect on the financial performances of the SACCOs. The study is beneficial to SACCOs management in improving the performance of Savings and Credit Co-operatives and enabling them to compete globally. The study recommends gender parity consideration and balanced mix of skilled board members during appointments of the board members. The recommendations are important to the government, especially the department of cooperatives in strengthening policies ...