International Journal of Arts and Humanities

Public Morality in Africa for Transformational Leadership and Governance

Abstract: This study examines the role of public morality in fostering transformational leadership and effective governance in Africa. Amidst diverse cultural, religious, and socio-political dynamics, the continent faces challenges in aligning traditional moral values with contemporary governance practices. These challenges underscore the need to reassess the impact of traditional African moral frameworks on leadership and governance in the modern era. African societies are navigating a complex landscape where traditional moral values often diverge from formal legal systems and modern governance structures, posing challenges to ethical leadership and societal cohesion. The study aims to assess the impact of traditional African moral values on contemporary leadership practices, analyse the alignment of written laws with communal moral standards, and propose strategies for promoting holistic approaches to public morality in African governance. The scope encompasses a comparative analysis across various African countries, focusing on the interaction between traditional values and formal institutions. Limitations include the diversity of cultural contexts and the evolving nature of regional governance dynamics. This research contributes to scholarly understanding by highlighting the relevance of indigenous moral philosophies in shaping ethical governance models and fostering societal stability in Africa. Theories of transformational leadership and ethical governance inform the study, highlighting the integration of cultural norms and legal frameworks in effective leadership practices. Employing content analysis, the study examines literature, legal documents, and case studies to explore the implementation and impact of moral values on governance structures. The findings suggest that while traditional moral values provide a foundation for ethical leadership, challenges persist in their integration with formal governance frameworks. There is a notable discrepancy between prescribed laws and communal moral standards, necessitating strategic reforms. The study concludes that aligning written laws with communal moral standards is essential for fostering effective and ethical leadership in Africa. It underscores the importance of promoting inclusive decision-making processes and leveraging technology to enhance transparency and accountability. Recommendations include legislative reforms to incorporate traditional values, leadership training on ethical decision-making, and community engagement strategies to bridge cultural divides and enhance governance effectiveness.

Keywords: cultural diversity, ethical leadership, legal frameworks, public morality, transformational leadership and governance, traditional African values