THE AUTONOMY OF MUNICIPAL COUNCILS IN CAMEROON, CASE STUDY OF THE BUEA COUNCIL

ABSTRACT

The main objective of this work is to assess conflict management and its effect on employees’ performance in the Buea municipality. The study was guided by 2 specific objectives, which included; to investigate the different sources of conflict among employees of MFIs in the Buea municipality and to investigate the different conflict management techniques used by MFIs in the Buea municipality. This gave birth to four hypotheses (two null and two alternatives). Primary data was collected through the administration of 50 structure questions to workers of Buea council. The data was presented in charts and tables. And chi-square employed for test of hypothesis. The study revealed that there are different sources of conflict among employees of MFIs in the Buea municipality, which include; Lack of respect for the hierarchy, Inadequate specification in function, Poor communication among employees, Poor leadership style and differences in Cultural background. The findings of the study further revealed that there are different conflict management techniques used by MFIs in the Buea municipality, which include; Enforcing strict disciplinary rules, Consulting with workers in order to resolve conflicts, Putting in place formal procedure for conflict prevention. Thus, conflict management affects employees’ performance in the Buea municipality. The study recommended the promotion of a culture of respect by training and providing employees with an in-depth understanding of work ethics and the provision of effective communication channels for employees to air their grievances without fear of victimization.