Reflections on Leadership and Institutions in Africa

(Hardback)

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This book contains different reflections on leadership and institutions in Africa. Drawing from different ideological and methodological orientations, the book highlights how leadership and institutions have shaped and continue to shape the trajectory of Africas political and economic development. The book explores different epochs in Africas history, from the era of colonialism to the period of nationalist movements, and up to post-colonial Africa. Essays in the volume engage with major actors and important institutions that defined each era. By presenting various reflections and representations of leadership and institutions in Africa, this book attempts to make the connection between leadership and institutions on the one hand, and between these variables and Africas development on the other.

Similar to most studies on Africas political economy, the book considers the role of external forces whether operationalized through direct interventions as was the case during the colonial era, or through subtle imposition of policies as has been the new model in post-colonial times. Drawing from these lenses, issues around Africas dependency on external interventions, neo-colonialism, neoliberalism, and disregard for Africas culture are explored and contextualized within the framework of leadership and institutions.

Reviews

"This book skillfully interweaves extant explanations with novel perspectives to interrogate the complex nature of leadership and institutions in Africa, and how they intersect with development. Kalu and Falola have produced an indispensable volume that is compelling, engaging, and thought-provoking. This work should be a must-read for everyone interested in a better understanding of how leadership and institutions have shaped development in Africa." --Adebayo Oyebade, Tennessee State University

"Reflections on Leadership and Institutions in Africa demonstrates the significance of developmental leadership and inclusive institutions to political stability, sustainable socioeconomic development, and shared prosperity. It is unique in its broad comparative approach, rich thematic focus, and cross-disciplinary analytical rigor. It is highly recommended for everyone interested in the interface between leadership, social institutions, and practical policy outcomes." --Shadrack Wanjala Nasong'o, Professor of International Studies, Rhodes College

Author Bio

Kenneth Kalu is Assistant Professor of Global Management/International Business and member of the Advisory Council of Canada-China Institute for Business and Development at the Ted Rogers School of Management, Ryerson University, Toronto, Canada.

Toyin Falola is currently the Jacob and Frances Sanger Mossiker Chair in the Humanities at the University of Texas at Austin, USA.