Abstract

Recognized by almost all scholars as an important determinant of success in Public Sector Reforms, leadership plays an essential role in shaping the nature and direction of organizational evolution. This study analyses the complex landscape of leadership within the context of Public Sector Reforms in Malawi (Using the case of National Herbarium and Botanical Gardens), undertaking a systematic examination of its role on various elements of reform implementation. Specifically, with the general consensus among scholars on its significance, leadership emerges as a prerequisite in the effectiveness and success of public sector reforms. The main aim of the study therefore is to identify and examine the complex leadership factors that affect the implementation of public sector reforms. A unique feature of this study is the exploration of the potential effect of different leadership styles—ranging from supportive and directive to participative and achievement-oriented—in facilitating the successful execution of Operational Reforms, Financial Reforms, Administrative Reforms, and Management Reforms. Using a qualitative approach, the research methodology involved in-depth interviews with a diverse range of participants, which included general staff, middle management, and senior government officials. The study sample, consisting of 30 respondents, provides helpful perspectives into the complexities and challenges faced in the pursuit of public sector improvements. One of the notable finding is that funding and resource inadequacies (which ultimately affect leadership) emerge as prominent barriers to effective reform implementation, along with a discernible shortage of leadership personnel suitable for driving these transformations. Despite these challenges, the study explains specific instances of commendable progress. This research not only exposes the challenges but also emphasizes the essential role of leadership in progressively steering the direction and determining the outcomes of Public Sector Reforms in Malawi.

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School	: School of Law, Economics and Government
Issued Date	: 2024

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