| Does the concept of leadership in Africa compare to leadership in Western discourse or is African Leadership a particular and specific practice based on a different philosophy? In support of evolving leadership capacity in Africa, this study sought stories, insight, and wisdom from 20 individuals who have experienced and exercised leadership in Africa—elder African leaders and visionaries such as heads of state, directors of multilateral organizations, spiritual leaders, and community opinion leaders.;Using an organic inquiry method, this research focuses on exploring the principles and foundations of African leadership through conversations with elders. This study was a quest to know what in Africa requires a unique leadership, to understand African leadership and how it can be tapped for economic development and social welfare. Through organic inquiry this research enters the space of the sacred and presents that which is not verbalized, is not written, holds wisdom, and unfolds through stories from the heart.;This research contributes to an understanding of the dynamics of leadership and human systems in Africa, in subtle and nuanced ways evoked by the collective stories from elders. This understanding accesses a subtle realm of realization about Africa and the role of leadership in African development, which contributes to a sense of clarity and direction for the future of the continent. This research might also contribute to how the next generations of African leaders effectively address the complexities of African development. The results of this inquiry may be of interest to African leaders, teachers, development practitioners, and all of those working to improve the situation on the continent.;The findings suggest a substantial difference between leadership in the Western discourse and leadership in the African discourse: African leadership is focused on the collective, whereas Western leadership is rather focused on the individual. These differences might be related to the context in which the leadership is exercised. |
