Determinants and Challenges of Health Workers Motivation in Rural Tanzania, a Story from Rombo District Council North Eastern Tanzania, East Africa

Abstract

The paper aims at exploring the experiences of health workers working in the health care facilities in Rural Tanzania, in terms of their motivation to work. Through questionnaires, and documentary reviews the study reveals that staff were motivated due to intrinsic motivation because management trusted them.  Other motivators were found to be, positive superior subordinate feedback, and involvement in decision making.  However the following were found to be the main challenges: Inadequate staff promotion, incompatible financial incentives with promotions, inadequate staff recognition, and job descriptions, lack/inadequate training programme, shortage of supplies and equipment as well as shortage of staff and unsatisfactory remuneration package. To rectify  the situation the paper recommends for:  (i) Design of  a promotion schedule which will form the basis for criteria and periodic staff promotion  (ii)  Preparation of Recognition schemes (iii)  Have clear and agreed training plan  and finally (iv)Job descriptions should be written to all the staff to avoid confusions in day to day performance  of tasks.