Leadership. A weighty term, yet often misunderstood. It’s a calling, not a title. It’s an opportunity to influence, inspire, and lead change despite challenges. For Kenyans, leadership is often equated to public office, but in truth, it extends beyond boardrooms and parliaments—it starts with you.
With this in mind, let’s unpack an essential question amidst our current national frustrations. What does leadership really mean, and how can we, as citizens, contribute to the change we so desperately seek?
The Complexity of Leadership
If you’ve been a leader in any capacity—even within your family or community—you’ll know it’s no walk in the park. True leadership demands discernment, grace, resilience, and wisdom. It is a juggling act of understanding what’s best for people, even when they may not see it themselves.
Take our very own Kenyan context. As a Christian nation with approximately 85.5% of the population identifying as Christian, many of us believe that President Ruto was chosen to lead by divine intervention. This sparked expectations that his tenure would bring instant solutions to deeply rooted challenges. Yet, as history—and even scripture—teaches us, leadership journeys often include trials and setbacks.
Consider Moses. Sent by God to deliver the Israelites, his leadership did not lead to instant relief. Instead, things appeared to worsen before redemption came. The Israelites’ struggle is a poignant reminder for us today; lasting change takes time, perseverance, and collective effort—not just the wave of a leader’s hand.
Instead of playing the blame game—a habit most of us know all too well—why don’t we ask ourselves one critical question? What am Idoing to make a difference?
Leadership begins with us
I recall a conversation with a close friend who was filled with frustration over Kenya’s state of affairs. Like many, he lashed out at leadership, criticizing the inefficiency and endless political wrangling. I didn’t disagree with his concerns—they are valid, after all. However, I shared a story about a small village that turned its challenges into success with one simple act—every person contributing a handful of soil.
From that combined effort grew a garden that nourished their community. The lesson? Change begins with small, intentional actions at an individual level. Even monumental challenges, like Kenya’s economic struggles, political issues, or social divides, require cohesive effort from all of us.
It is fine to point out problems, but what solutions can you bring to the table? Can you mentor a struggling young person? Start an initiative in your community? Support local businesses? Change isn’t reserved for those in the State House—it starts right where you are.
Leadership is Compassion, Not Criticism
Make no mistake, being agitated because of injustice is necessary. Policies that harm citizens must be challenged. However, what if instead of hurling insults and perpetuating divisive narratives, we discussed solutions constructively?
For instance, social media is flooded with debates but sometimes descends into attacks on specific individuals rather than addressing key issues. How often do we channel this energy into meaningful engagement instead? Imagine the impact of coordinated initiatives aimed at raising community awareness or pressing for legislative action politely but firmly.
Constructive dialogue, rooted in empathy and solutions, empowers leaders and citizens alike to think clearly and act decisively. Are you willing to lead these conversations?
Leadership requires wisdom beyond intelligence
Another challenge has been our habit of electing leaders based on popularity, charisma, or even family ties. Many campaign promises sound appealing but fall flat when it comes to implementation. The reason? Lofty ideas with no foundation to build on.
Wisdom—not merely academic intelligence—is the foundation of true leadership. It involves deep foresight, sound judgment, and the humility to seek divine guidance. Our faith teaches us to seek wisdom through prayer, and perhaps that’s where we, as Kenyans, should start.
Instead of merely hoping that someone else will solve our problems, what if we took the time to seek divine counsel on how to participate in shaping Kenya’s future? After all, God is the creator of everything and He knows everything – including the solutions to Kenya’s problems. Instead to shouting at each other, perhaps we spend more time in the secret place interceding for this nation and asking God what He would have you do for Kenya.
Lessons on Leadership from Kagame
Take a moment to study leaders like Rwanda’s Paul Kagame. Admired by many across Africa, his leadership has been both lauded and critiqued. However, his implementation of policies—though not universally embraced—has typically aimed at the collective well-being of his citizens, not just pacifying complaints.
Leadership often requires tough decisions. It’s not about pleasing everyone but ensuring progress. This applies not only to heads of state but to all of us in positions of influence. Leadership is service. Leadership is intentional.
A Call to Personal Leadership
Right now, Kenya stands at a crossroads. The challenges are daunting, but the opportunities for change are boundless. Here’s the truth—President Ruto, or any leader for that matter, can’t build this nation alone. It’s a collective effort.
Ask yourself:
If each of us commits to being the change in our spheres of influence, then collectively, we can transform Kenya into the nation of our dreams.
Reflect and Take Action
Leadership in Kenya isn’t just about those we elect. It’s a collective commitment that begins with you.
Every small action counts toward a bigger change. Share this post with friends, family, and colleagues to spread the message of collective responsibility. Together, we can redefine what leadership means for our country.
Change begins with you.
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Till next time, take care, be safe and God strengthen you.
