The Yale Council on African Studies, in collaboration with The Christie and Chinua Achebe Foundation, is set to host a significant dialogue on African leadership and democracy this November. The Chinua Achebe Leadership in Africa Forum, scheduled for November 15th, 2024, at Yale’s Luce Hall, brings together an impressive array of African leaders, scholars, and emerging voices to discuss crucial aspects of governance and leadership on the continent.
Comprehensive Dialogue on African Leadership
The forum’s structure reflects a thoughtful approach to examining leadership through multiple lenses. Beginning with welcome remarks from Cajetan Iheka, Chair of the Council on African Studies, and Steven Wilkinson, the forum immediately delves into substantive discussions on democracy and governance in Africa.
A particularly noteworthy panel on “Leadership and Democracy in Africa” features prominent figures including H.E. Seleshi Bekele Awulachew, Ethiopia’s former Minister of Water, and notable Nigerian leaders Obiageli Ezekwesili and Peter Obi. This session, moderated by Yale’s Katharine Baldwin, promises to offer valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities facing democratic governance in Africa.
Focus on Regional Governance
The forum includes a focused discussion on subnational governance, featuring current Abia State Governor H.E. Alex Otti in conversation with Yale psychiatry professors Charles Dike and Theddeus Iheanacho. This session highlights the growing importance of effective governance at the state and regional levels in African nations.
Women’s Leadership and Intergenerational Dialogue
A significant portion of the program is dedicated to examining women’s roles in African leadership, with distinguished speakers including Uganda’s Ambassador to the U.S., H.E. Robie Kakongo, and former U.S. Ambassador Bisa Williams. This panel, moderated by Professor Nwando Achebe, underscores the critical importance of women’s leadership in Africa’s future.
The forum also features an intergenerational panel bringing together established leaders with Yale students, demonstrating a commitment to nurturing future African leadership. This session includes perspectives from both current students and experienced leaders, creating a unique dialogue across generations.
Cultural Integration and Historical Significance
The event’s cultural dimension is highlighted by a performance of “Ode to Africa” by chant artist Amarachi Attamah-Ugwu, while the keynote address by former Nigerian President H.E. Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, GCFR, promises to provide valuable historical context and future perspectives.
Looking Forward
This forum represents a significant effort to bridge academic inquiry with practical leadership challenges in Africa. By bringing together current and former heads of state, scholars, students, and cultural figures, the event embodies Chinua Achebe’s legacy of intellectual engagement with Africa’s political and social realities.
The diverse range of topics and speakers suggests a comprehensive examination of leadership challenges and opportunities in contemporary Africa, while the inclusion of student voices indicates a forward-looking approach to developing solutions for the continent’s future.
For those interested in African governance, democracy, and leadership development, this forum presents a unique opportunity to engage with some of the continent’s most influential voices and emerging leaders. The event’s location at Yale University further emphasizes the growing importance of African studies and leadership development in global academic discourse.
The forum’s timing and composition suggest an important moment for reflection on African leadership as the continent continues to navigate complex political, social, and economic challenges while working to realize its vast potential.
Register here to attend the forum.