Drivers of organisational effectiveness in faith-based institutions: Testing a multidimensional model in Sub-Saharan Africa

Purpose This study aims to examine organisational effectiveness (OE) in faith-based institutions in Sub-Saharan Africa, drawing evidence from Ghana, by testing a mechanism-based elaboration of the Unified Model of Organisational Effectiveness (UMOE). It assesses the distinct and relative contributions of structural, operational, behavioural/attitudinal and financial drivers. Design/methodology/approach Survey data from leaders and members across two denominational clusters were analysed using multiple regression. Denominational patterns were examined descriptively and interpreted via the lens of institutional isomorphism. Findings Behavioural/attitudinal and structural drivers were significant predictors of OE, highlighting collective mobilisation and governance alignment in volunteer-based religious organisations. Operational and financial drivers were positively associated but not independently significant. Denominational patterns showed structural convergence alongside selective behavioural and financial variation. Originality/value This study advances multidimensional effectiveness theory by identifying distinct generative mechanisms, clarifying driver salience in mission-driven volunteer-based contexts and defining boundary conditions within Sub-Saharan African denominational environments. It extends effectiveness scholarship into underexplored religious settings and offers practical implications for governance and leadership in hybrid religious-social organisations.