Leadership Culture in Africa- Moyin Johnson

One of Africa’s biggest challenges is its poor leadership culture. Traditionally, the culture prescribes a power distance between leaders and citizens. Leadership is generally not seen as collaborative but rather, instructive. The notion that service is seen as a show of ‘respect’ to leaders and not an act of service, is a theme not only present in government but across most fractions of society. As a result, deeply embedded into individuals. By virtue of the positions leaders occupy, they are viewed as superior and as such, largely left unaccountable. This needs to change.

Youths across the continent have become impatient with the complacent nature and incompetence of many of the leaders and have begun to see themselves as catalysts for change to Africa’s most pressing issues. These social change makers are developing and promoting social innovations / actions to address some of these issues. Hence, a new generation of leaders is emerging on the continent. To aid the sustainability of these innovations / actions and avoid repeating the same mistakes as their predecessors, it is important that we understand the importance of leadership as service and develop appropriate leadership qualities.

By Moyin Johnson

Moyin Johnson is a project manager, lawyer and communications strategist currently working within the policy and governance space. As a strong advocate for the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), her experience spans across projects that promote the global goals and improve the lives of people in Africa. She is an alumna of the London School of Economics and Political Science where she obtained a Master of Public Administration (MPA) in International Development. She also holds a Bachelor of Laws from the School of Oriental and African Studies (SOAS).