Key to enhancing sustainable development and building wealth Leadership, governance, Vision and wisdom

Fri, Aug 5, 2011

by Dr Joan Nwasike



Visionary leadership and wise governance are vital aspects of a country’s development. One cannot succeed without the other.{{more}} Leadership is pivotal in the imposition of political will and strong principles to pave the way for good governance to thrive, which will facilitate sustainable development.

Leadership that is visionary will demonstrate the determination in taking ownership of national development. It means the drawing up of strategic plans and priorities to attain national goals, and chalking up milestones in the journey towards progress. Effective leadership can inspire a nation to support policies and programmes for national development. Good governance ensures that a government adds value to its country through efficient allocation of resources and management of development challenges.

Clear sightedness, consistency and the flexibility to embrace change in order to achieve desired targets are key to good leadership. While these elements for success are well-known the world over, some countries still suffer from the lack of effective leadership and good governance. There are many reasons for this, including the lack of political will and coherent strategies to deal with change, particularly as it relates to small island developing states with their inherent vulnerabilities. These include geographical location, lack of human and natural resources, small economies, and the effects of climate change, to name but a few. Creativity and resourcefulness are vital in leadership and governance to address the challenges that impact on sustainable development.



Building the capacity of governments to strengthen their ability to govern effectively and to lead dynamically is what the Commonwealth does for its member countries, including Commonwealth Caribbean countries and territories of which there are 18, including St Vincent and the Grenadines. Fortifying the foundations of good governance and effective leadership are an ongoing process in which the Commonwealth works to enhance the effectiveness of governments and their stewardship of public administrations. Lying at the heart of the success of governance is the political and administrative interface – the relationship between the executive and the administrative arms of government. Co-operation and collaboration help to make socio-economic development possible. Working objectively, both parties can make development happen. They can add value in the work they do – with a stronger impact through concerted efforts. The Commonwealth endeavours to work hand-in-hand with member governments, institutions and partners to address their unique needs and interests in nation-building, whether it is in building leadership, expertise, skills, knowledge or sharpening the competitive edge of each country in socio-economic development to meet the aspirations of citizens for a better quality of life with greater opportunities for all.



The author is Acting Head of Commonwealth Regional Programmes and Adviser for the Caribbean at the Commonwealth Secretariat. She conducted a Commonwealth workshop in St Vincent and the Grenadines from 28-29 July on effective leadership, good governance and efficient public administration.