The story on leadership in Africa is not a good one. It is a story in which the key actors are often corrupt, authoritarian politicians. It is a story in which the majority of Africa’s population is held hostage to the whims and egotistical exploits of these selfish leaders. And yet this is only one side of the story.

The untold story is that Africa is also home to leaders who are imaginative, adaptable, ethical, and empowering. These are leaders who are transforming the spaces they serve on this continent. These leaders and their stories remind us that leadership from the inside out is not only possible in Africa but is already making a difference in transforming this continent.

If this new practice of leadership is to become the norm and not just the practice of a few amazing men and women, then we need a new narrative of leadership in Africa. Taaka Awori’s Leadership in Africa offers concrete principles to guide the practice of this transformative type of leadership. Using the stories and lessons from outstanding leaders on the continent, Taaka Awori illustrates the idea that your leadership is a reflection of who you are as a person. When a leader is self-aware, living their purpose, acting in alignment with their values and managing their emotions, their leadership is inevitably stronger and more impactful.

Reviews

”Are you searching for a book about people centered, transformational and principled driven African leaders who truly cares about the common good, the African continent, and have put themselves at the disposal of measures promoting economic development, good governance, women’s empowerment, industrialization, combating climate change, food and nutrition security, private sector and enhanced public services? Leadership in Africa Redefined is an easy-to-read and highly insightful and compelling book based on analyzed case studies; it abundantly answered this question for me. No doubt it will for you too.”
Siapha Kamara CEO | SEND WEST AFRICA
'Leadership in Africa Redefined' by Taaka Awori is a thought-provoking and insightful book that challenges prevailing notions of leadership on the African continent. The book offers a comprehensive examination of the diverse challenges faced by African leaders, and it provides practical advice and strategies to address these issues. Awori's writing is eloquent and engaging, capturing the reader's attention from start to finish. With its innovative ideas and compelling arguments, 'Leadership in Africa Redefined' is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding and reimagining leadership in Africa.”
Nate Brown Pan Africa ILGA, Executive Director
Taaka’s book on Leadership in Africa Redefined is one of the most practical and applicable leadership books coming out of the continent that I have read. Taaka put thought into accounting for situational context. This, coupled with the examples of Africans makes the book relatable. Leadership in Africa Redefined is well-written and thought-provoking. I couldn’t put the book down until I had finished it. I would highly recommend this book to both experienced and new leaders.
Catherine Engmann Founder of Platinum Board Services
I've been avidly following Ms. Awori for a while, particularly her 'Busara Africa Leadership Tips' YouTube series. When I heard she had a book coming out, I knew instantly that I had to get a copy. As a young aspiring African leader, I thought ``Leadership in Africa Redefined`` might give me some perspective on what the good and the great African leaders, both current and past, have done and are doing to provide the type of leadership that the continent needs. I was not disappointed. The book is timely, relevant and actionable. It provides a solid roadmap to help one think about what it means to lead - oneself and others - and to lead at scale. I particularly enjoyed reading about the experiences of leaders highlighted in the book. The examples were relatable and relevant. I found myself taking notes and bookmarking many sections of the book for reference later on. For me, the key takeaway is that, although it appears there is a dearth of good leadership on the continent, this is not the case. And the book does a good job at amplifying the examples of good leadership on the continent. Also, while the concepts presented are universal, context matters. To lead effectively in Africa, we need leaders who understand themselves, understand the continent, its people and their specific challenges, and are driven by a deep love and passion to see the continent and its people move beyond their present circumstances. And if we look around and do not see these leaders, then ``Leadership in Africa Redefined`` is a call to action for us to become the leaders we wish we had.
Uloma O.
Whereas, oftentimes, leadership is presented as a concept far removed from our daily life, Taaka through this awesome resource presents a more relatable, bit-sized and practical route. It guides you through a journey from introspection to development. Whether you have your sights on the top or not, it begins with you and Taaka has made it a lovely journey.
Martin B.

About the Author

Taaka Awori is the CEO of Busara Africa and a Leadership Expert, Certified Coach Organisational Development Specialist, Facilitator & Speaker.

She brings a rewarding 20 years’ experience working with public and private organisations including NGOs across the world (Africa, Europe, USA).

Taaka has continually propelled leaders to become the change they envision. A proven leader, she leverages her collective knowledge-base and expertise to create truly comprehensive solutions to intractable problems for leaders and organisations. Taaka has a proven track record of success in proffering practical solutions to multi-disciplinary teams across multiple industries.

Taaka is the Chair of the Board of the African Women’s Development Fund (AWDF), the first pan-African women’s fund dedicated to the realisation and fulfillment of African women’s rights. She is also a member of the Editorial Board of Coaching Perspectives, the flagship global publication of the Association for Coaching.

Taaka holds:

  • A Bachelor’s degree in Political Science from Harvard University (Boston, USA).
  • A Juris Doctor (J.D.) in Law from Columbia University (New York, USA).