ASSESSMENT OF EMPLOYEE WELLBEING AND ITS EFFECTS ON WORKFORCE PRODUCTIVITY IN CHINESE CONSTRUCTION COMPANIES OPERATING IN ETHIOPIA

Abstract

This study investigates the impact of employee wellbeing on workforce productivity in Chinese construction companies operating in Ethiopia. Employee wellbeing, encompassing physical health, mental health, safety, and organizational support, is a critical factor influencing performance, engagement, and overall project outcomes in the construction sector. Given the cross-cultural and high-risk work environment in Ethiopia, workers face unique challenges related to fatigue, stress, and communication barriers between Chinese expatriates and local Ethiopian employees. The research employed a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative data collected from 15 employee questionnaires with qualitative insights from five in-depth interviews with supervisors and managers. The study examined four key dimensions: employee wellbeing, workforce productivity, cross-cultural work environment, and occupational health and safety. Quantitative results were analyzed using descriptive statistics, while qualitative data were interpreted through thematic analysis, enabling triangulation and a comprehensive understanding of the relationships among variables. Findings reveal a strong positive relationship between employee wellbeing and workforce productivity. Employees experiencing higher levels of physical and mental wellbeing report increased efficiency, better task completion, and improved quality of work. Fatigue, stress, and cross-cultural misunderstandings were identified as significant barriers to productivity. Moreover, effective safety practices, organizational support, leadership engagement, and culturally sensitive management practices were found to enhance both wellbeing and productivity. The study concludes that improving employee wellbeing through integrated health, safety, and cross-cultural strategies is essential for maximizing productivity in Chinese construction firms in Ethiopia. Recommendations include implementing mental and physical health programs, fostering cross-cultural communication, strengthening occupational safety measures, and promoting supportive leadership practices. The research contributes to a deeper understanding of workforce management in multinational construction projects, providing practical insights for companies, policymakers, and scholars aiming to enhance labor productivity, project efficiency, and sustainable construction outcomes in Ethiopia.