Information Communication Technology Innovation Practices and Performance of Humanitarian Non-Governmental Organizations in Kenya: The Moderating Effect of Cultural Norms

Abstract

Background: Information Communication Technology (ICT) innovations have transformed humanitarian non-governmental organizations (NGOs), enhancing service delivery and operational efficiency. However, cultural norms play a critical moderating role in shaping how these technologies are adopted and utilized, influencing their effectiveness in diverse contexts such as Kenya.

Objective: This study examined the moderating effect of cultural norms on the relationship between information communication technology innovation practices and performance of humanitarian non-governmental organizations in Kenya.

Theory: The research was grounded in the Diffusion of Innovation Theory (DOI), which explains how new ideas and technologies spread within social systems. DOI provided a framework for analyzing how cultural factors influence innovation adoption across different populations and organizational contexts.

Methodology: A mixed-methods approach was employed, combining quantitative surveys with qualitative interviews. Data were collected from 283 humanitarian NGO managers and field officers (87% response rate), focusing on four key ICT innovations: social media platforms, mobile applications, biometric identification systems, and strategic internet networks.

Results: Correlation analysis revealed strong positive associations between all ICT innovation variables and NGO performance (r > 0.8, p < 0.05). Multiple regression analysis showed these innovations collectively explained 79.3% of variance in NGO performance. When cultural norms were introduced as a moderating variable, the explanatory power increased significantly to 89.7%. All interaction terms between ICT innovations and cultural norms were statistically significant (p < 0.05), confirming cultural factors substantially moderate the technology-performance relationship.

Conclusions: While ICT innovations significantly enhance humanitarian NGO performance in Kenya, their effectiveness is contingent upon cultural compatibility and acceptance. The relationship between technology adoption and organizational outcomes varies depending on alignment with local cultural contexts.

Recommendations: Humanitarian NGOs should improve cultural awareness among their staff, include local leaders in choosing technology solutions, design ICT programs to fit local cultures, use flexible service models that respect local practices and build lasting trust by being open with communities to get the most from ICT innovations in different cultures.