Navigating Post-Pandemic Challenges: A Strategic Leadership Model for Enhancing NGO Resilience in Zambia- Data set

Research Hypotheses
This study examines the role of strategic leadership in enhancing the adaptive capacity of NGOs in Zambia post-COVID-19. The key hypotheses tested include: (1) Strategic leadership positively influences NGO adaptation; (2) Challenges such as financial constraints and operational disruptions impact resilience; (3) Leadership practices strengthen adaptive capacity; (4) Specific leadership behaviors improve resilience; and (5) A contextually relevant leadership model enhances adaptation outcomes.

Data Collection & Methodology
The dataset was collected from 254 NGOs across health, education, and social welfare sectors, sampled from a population of 1,567 using Krejcie & Morgan’s formula. Data was gathered through an online survey with a 90% response rate. A five-point Likert scale (1 = Strongly Disagree to 5 = Strongly Agree) measured strategic leadership effectiveness, challenges faced, leadership responses, and NGO adaptability.

Data Description & Interpretation
The dataset includes NGO type, years of operation, and funding sources, providing context for assessing resilience. It measures perceptions of strategic leadership, pandemic-related challenges, and leadership strategies. Additionally, it evaluates leadership response effectiveness and the relevance of a newly developed strategic leadership model. The core dependent variable, organizational adaptive capacity, reflects NGOs’ ability to sustain operations amid uncertainties.

Key Findings
Analysis showed strong strategic leadership correlates with higher adaptability. Despite financial and operational difficulties, NGOs with effective leadership responses demonstrated greater resilience. The newly developed leadership model was seen as practical for crisis navigation. Regression analysis confirmed leadership responses had the strongest impact on adaptive capacity, followed by the relevance of the leadership model.

Data Use & Access
This dataset provides insights for researchers studying leadership resilience, policymakers designing NGO support frameworks, and NGO leaders improving crisis strategies. Due to confidentiality, the raw dataset is unavailable, but summary statistics can be shared upon request. Interested researchers may contact Mwangala Sitali at [e-mail] for access under ethical guidelines.