The role of leadership in knowledge management at Limpopo provincial treasury

Abstract

Organisations are now operating in the knowledge era; therefore knowledge resources have gained more value when compared to other resources. The main objective of Knowledge Management is to create systems that can facilitate the conversion of these resources into practices that could be operationalized. Leadership is a knowledge management enabler; hence it is necessary for effective Knowledge Management implementation. The purpose of this study was to examine the reasons for leadership deficits in relation to Knowledge Management in the Limpopo Provincial Treasury (LPT). The study took the form of a qualitative research approach. Primary data was obtained through interviews and focus group interviews. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 15 Senior Management Services (SMS) members and focus group discussions were held with 16 Middle Management Service (MMS) members. The study found that there are leadership deficits in Knowledge Management at the Limpopo Provincial Treasury. Knowledge Management practices are in place but there is no formal structure therefore participants did not prioritise Knowledge Management programmes. Knowledge Management is not part of the organisational structure and institutional arrangements of the LPT. The study further found that there is no common leadership style at the Limpopo Provincial Treasury. The findings of this study will have negative impact in achieving the objectives of the LPT KM strategy and also affect the implementation of the Provincial KM Strategy. The study recommended the establishment of a Knowledge Management structure and that training and a leadership seminar be provided for all SMS members and furthermore, that Knowledge Management should become a Key Performance Areas for all SMS members.