Rowman & Littlefield Publishers Reflections on Leadership and Institutions in Africa (Africa: Past, Present & Prospects)

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 Africa's political and economic development. The book explores different epochs in Africa's 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 Africa's development on the other. Similar to most studies on Africa's 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 Africa's dependency on external interventions, neo-colonialism, neoliberalism, and disregard for Africa's culture are explored and contextualized within the framework of leadership and institutions. Review 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 CollegeThis 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, Professor of History, Tennessee State University About the Author Kenneth Kalu is Assistant Professor of Global Management/International Business and member of the Advisory Council of Canada-China Institute for Business & Development at the Ted Rogers School of Management, Ryerson University, Toronto, Canada. He received his PhD from Carleton University, Ottawa. His research interests revolve around Africa's political economy. He is also interested in examining the dynamics of China-Africa economic relations. His most recent books include: Foreign Aid and the Future of Africa (Palgrave Macmillan, 2018), and Africa's Big Men: Predatory State-Society Relations in Africa (co-edited with Olajumoke Yacob-Haliso and Toyin Falola; Routledge, 2018). His essays have appeared in several academic journals and book chapters. Dr. Kalu has held senior executive positions in the private and public sectors in Canada and overseas.Toyin Falola is the Jacob and Frances Sanger Mossiker Chair Professor in the Humanities and a Distinguished Teaching Professor at The University of Texas at Austin. A celebrated scholar of global stature, Prof. Falola has published numerous books and essays in diverse areas. He has received various awards and honours, including the Jean Holloway Award for Teaching Excellence, the Texas Exes Teaching Award and seven honorary doctorates. He is the Series Editor of "Carolina Studies on Africa and the Black World", among several others.