Servant Leaders, not Corrupt Leaders

During his stay with us for December 31 till January 7, Father Kizito led us, boys staying in Mthunzi who are growing up into men, with a series of reflection on leadership. Leadership is inborn in many people, it is like a talent, but it is also skill that can be learned. But all of us have in different way to be leaders. In the classroom, in the working place, in the society and also in our own family. Many people blame the failure of the African states on failed leaders. The famous Nigerian authors Chinua Achebe already some decades ago blamed the political leadership for the colossal failure of post-independence Africa.

These reflections went on outside the workshop, among us. We youths certainly have the potential of becoming good responsible leaders. But often we feel helpless in front of corruption, and in the long run we give up, and even join the game.

How do we fight corruption? A lot of efforts and struggles are being done to fight corruption in Zambia. We know that the American government has given Zambia a lot of money for this purpose, but a good part of it ended up in the hands of corrupt people!

However, there are some hopes because we see year after year that there are more leaders, youths, NGOs, journalists who speak and educate the public about the need to eradicate corruption, that play a very harmful part in the economy but also in the spirit of our nation. In our judgement under the late president Levy Patrick Mwanawasa some progress were made in the battle against corruption and for the reduction of poverty. However, after his death his own party took corruption to high levels never seen before. The current government, in conjunction with the Zambian police, the court and the Drug enforcement commission, has expressed his determination to high harder to eradicate corruption.

But we youths we shall not fold our hands and seat back. As potential good leaders of tomorrow we should get involved in the fight.

By Mike Mwenda