An Analysis of Employee Motivation in a Multinational Context in Sub Saharan Africa

Abstract

This study assesses motivational preferences of employees in a multinational context in Sub Saharan Africa. Using the Grundfos group operating sites in Ghana, Kenya and South Africa as a case study, the study explores quantitative data on possible differences in employee motivational factors based on selected variables such as location, length of service and managerial status. Questionnaires were employed in collecting data from 131 participants from the three locations of Grundfos Sub Saharan Africa (SSA). Results of the study reveal that the factor “equal treatment of employees” is considered most important among the respondents. It is also noted that there were no significant statistical differences among the participants based on the examined variables. Policy and practical implications of the findings of this study are discussed, particularly around the development and implementation of Human resources policies that address employee perceptions of equity. This study makes a contribution to existing literature on employee motivation in multinational settings.