Nutrition leadership in Africa: making the change

Abstract

Only a small number of truly exceptional international leaders have emanated from Africa. One of these is the South African Nobel Prize winner, Nelson Mandela. In reality, Africa is poorly led and most African countries still carry the burden of neo-patrimonial leaders who cling to their own knowledge, ideas, judgments and leadership positions, while rarely accepting advice from followers.¹ Africa is known to have well-intended reforms, but without the necessary galvanising action. While improved leadership in Africa might not be the only answer to addressing nutritional problems, it would definitely be a first step in the right direction.²