Reconceptualizing Strategy Implementation in Devolved Governance: An Integrated Governance Systems Perspective

Purpose: This study reconceptualizes strategy implementation in devolved governance as a mediated governance process rather than a linear administrative function, developing and validating an Integrated Governance Systems Framework that explains how institutional systems, transformational leadership, operational capacity, stakeholder coordination, and sociocultural conditions interact to shape social service delivery outcomes. Methodology: The study employed an explanatory sequential mixed-methods design guided by pragmatism in Isiolo County, Kenya. Quantitative data were collected from 395 household respondents, and qualitative insights from 19 purposively selected key informants, using structured questionnaires and semi-structured interviews. Quantitative data were analyzed using Exploratory Factor Analysis, Confirmatory Factor Analysis, and Structural Equation Modelling (SPSS 29, AMOS 26); qualitative data were analyzed thematically and integrated to explain the contextual mechanisms underlying implementation and service delivery outcomes. Findings: Strategy implementation operates through mediated, context-dependent pathways rather than the direct effects of isolated factors. Transformational leadership had a weak but significant indirect effect on service delivery through operational capacity (β = 0.117, p = .050). Operational capacity was the central implementation mechanism, significantly predicting education and health outcomes (β = 0.414, p < .001) but not WASH outcomes (β = -0.007, p = .900). Sociocultural factors significantly impacted education and health (β = 0.347, p < .001) and WASH outcomes (β = 0.223, p < .001). This confirmed that effective implementation depends on the interplay of institutional, operational and contextual governance systems. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: The study contributes to the theory of strategy implementation by developing and validating an Integrated Governance Systems Framework that moves away from linear, leadership-centered explanations to inter-connected governance pathways, by integrating the Institutional, Transformational Leadership, Infrastructure-Led Development, Resource Dependence, Stakeholder, Social Constructionism and Public Value theories. The study recommends improving operational capacity, institutional coordination, infrastructure systems, and sociocultural responsiveness for better citizen-centered public value outcomes.