Nutrition leadership in Africa: making the change

  • Christine Taljaard North West University
  • Zelda De Lange North-West University
  • Pontsho Malibe Department of Health South Africa
  • Zandile Mchiza Chronic Diseases of Lifestyle Unit

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

Author Biographies

Christine Taljaard, North West University
PhD Nutrition student Centre of Excellence-Nutrition North West University
Zelda De Lange, North-West University
PhD Nutrition student Centre of Excellence for Nutrition North-West University
Pontsho Malibe, Department of Health South Africa
Master of Public Health (MPH) Assistant Director: Nutrition Department of Health South Africa
Zandile Mchiza, Chronic Diseases of Lifestyle Unit
PhD (Med) Nutrition and Dietetics Senior Specialist Scientist Chronic Diseases of Lifestyle Unit
Published
2012-06-25
How to Cite
Taljaard, C., De Lange, Z., Malibe, P., & Mchiza, Z. (2012). Nutrition leadership in Africa: making the change. South African Journal of Clinical Nutrition, 25(3), 154. Retrieved from http://sajcn.co.za/index.php/SAJCN/article/view/648
Section
Letters to the Editor