The Influence of Monitoring and Incentives on Inter-Regional Bus Drivers’ Performance in Tanzania: The Moderating Role of Road and Bus Conditions

Abstract

The study aimed at investigating factors influencing inter-regional bus drivers’ performance in Tanzania under bus owners’–drivers’ dyadic relationships. The bus drivers’ performance as applied in this study refers to reducing road accidents/enhancing road driving safety. Using agency theory supported by empirical evidence, the study developed a model which specifically aimed at examining the influence of monitoring and incentives on inter-regional bus drivers’ performance in Tanzania. Furthermore, the study aimed at examining the moderating role of road condition on the relationship between monitoring and inter-regional bus drivers’ performance in Tanzania. Additionally, the study focused at examining the moderating role of bus condition on the relationship between incentives and inter-regional bus drivers’ performance in Tanzania. The study employed cross-sectional research design with data collected using a structured questionnaire from 326 inter-regional bus drivers at Ubungo Bus Terminal in Dar es Salaam. Data was analyzed using partial least square structural equation modeling supported by SmartPLS3.  The study revealed that monitoring has a positive influence on inter-regional bus drivers’ performance and its influence increases in the presence of good road condition. Similarly, the study revealed that incentives have a positive influence on inter-regional bus drivers’ performance in Tanzania and its influence increases in the presence of good bus condition. Active involvement of bus owners (principals) in managing inter-regional bus drivers by exercising monitoring such as using ICT for tracking bus drivers’ speed and incentives such as performance-based remuneration of drivers enhances inter-regional bus drivers’ performance and the strengths are more reinforced in the presence of good road condition and good bus condition respectively.