ANALYSIS OF STRATEGIC RESOURCES OFFERING COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE IN BOMET COUNTY

Abstract

Resources are the main economic factors that any developing country must strategize in order to bring wealth. Bomet County is endowed with many resources yet to be fully exploited. However the productivity is comparatively low, livelihood is low due to low income yet it has abundant resources. The objective of this research was to evaluate resources in Bomet County, to establish specific resources that may give Bomet County competitive advantage and to determine the likely resources exploitation combination that may offer competitive advantage in Bomet County. This study focused on leveraging of competitive advantage in Bomet County on resources to generate wealth. The literature review is based on Resource Based View Theory and Michael Porters‟ Five Points have been pointed out as the basis of resource development. Ecological factors (land, water, tourism, human resources) were the strategic resources offering competitive advantage in Bomet County for high level of productivity, price leadership and high quality service. In the research methodology, the survey design was adopted in collecting primary and secondary data from relevant authorities of ministries in Bomet County, targeting the use of resources and capabilities. The targeted population were government officers in land, water, tourism, public administration and education ministries who were directly involved in the use of strategic resources. The total number of identified population was 138 out of which 78 were issued with questionnaires. Questionnaires and interview schedules were the research instruments used. Secondary data included periodicals and ministerial reports on relevant areas. Data analysis was done using SPSS. Descriptive Analysis (percentages, frequencies and averages) followed by data presentation and discussions on bar graphs, pie charts and tables. The study concludes that maximum utilization of strategic resources will offer competitive advantage in Bomet County. Therefore the study recommends that further studies to be carried on how to implement the strategies of converting resource to generate maximum wealth