By Frazer Dzonzi
Leadership is often viewed as an innate trait—something people are born with rather than something they can learn. However, in Malawi, where leadership is crucial for national development, the question of whether leadership can be taught is not just theoretical; it has real implications for governance, business and community progress.
As the country continues to develop, fostering strong leadership at all levels is essential. But can leadership be systematically taught, or is it purely an inborn skill? Malawi has produced notable leaders in politics, business and civil society.
However, the quality of leadership in various sectors has often been questioned. Corruption, lack of accountability and poor decision-making have sometimes hindered progress. This has led to discussions on whether the country needs a more structured approach to leadership training.
Traditionally, Malawian society has emphasised respect for elders and authority figures, sometimes at the expense of critical thinking and independent leadership.
However, as globalisation and democracy continue to shape the nation, the need for well-rounded, ethical and visionary leaders has become evident.
The answer is both yes and no. While certain leadership traits—such as charisma, decisiveness and vision—may come naturally to some individuals, effective leadership also involves skills that can be learned These include communication, conflict resolution, strategic thinking and ethical decision-making. Several programmes in Malawi are already proving that leadership can be cultivated.
Institutions such as the Malawi Institute of Management offer leadership and management courses designed to equip individuals with the necessary skills.
Additionally, global programmes like Toastmasters International, which has active clubs in Malawi, help individuals develop public speaking and leadership skills through practice and mentorship.
Formal education plays a crucial role in shaping leaders. Universities and colleges in Malawi are increasingly incorporating leadership courses into their curricula. However, leadership education should not be limited to higher learning institutions. It should start as early as primary school, where students can be encouraged to take on responsibilities, work in teams and develop confidence in decision making.
Furthermore, informal education and mentorship programmes are essential in bridging the leadership gap. Many successful leaders in Malawi have benefited from mentorship and exposure to international leadership practices.
Youth organisations, churches and nongovernmental organisations have a role to play in teaching leadership by offering workshops, debate forums and real-world leadership experiences. Despite the potential to teach leadership, there are cultural and societal challenges that must be addressed.
In many Malawian communities, leadership is still associated with age and social status rather than competence. Younger individuals, especially women, often struggle to gain recognition as leaders. Breaking these cultural barriers requires a shift in mindset, where leadership is seen as a skillset rather than a birthright. Additionally, the lack of role models in ethical leadership has created scepticism about whether good leadership can be learned and practised.
Corruption and nepotism have eroded trust in leadership, making it more difficult for young people to believe that ethical leadership is attainable. This highlights the need for not just leadership training but also integritybuilding initiatives. To ensure Malawi develops a strong leadership culture, a multifaceted approach is needed.
Government institutions, educational bodies, private sector organisations and community leaders must work together to create leadership development programmes structured mentorship programmes, leadership academies and national forums can help young leaders gain the experience and confidence needed to lead effectively.
Technology can also play a role. Online courses, leadership webinars and digital mentorship platforms can expose Malawian youth to global leadership trends and strategies. Programmes such as the Young African Leaders Initiative, which has trained many emerging Malawian leaders, should be expanded and localised to have a greater impact.
Leadership can indeed be taught, but it requires a deliberate effort to cultivate the right skills, values and experiences. Malawi has the potential to produce great leaders, but this will only happen if leadership education is prioritised at all levels— formal, informal and through mentorship. If Malawi is to progress, leadership must be seen not as a privilege of the few but as a skill that can and should be developed in everyone willing to learn and serve
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