19/02/2025
Root causes of the conflict in South Sudan were identified as a leadership failure. according to the communique of 8 February by the high-level mediation for South Sudan in Kenyan capital Nairobi.
Understanding Leadership
By: Cde Anthony Juma Redento Pitia
In this book, title the 21 Irrefutable Laws of Leadership, Dr. John C. Maxwell discusses the myths of leadership. He summarizes what leadership is not into five myths: the Management Myth, the Knowledge Myth, the Pioneer Myth, the Entrepreneurship Myth, and the Position Myth. Dr. John C. Maxwell aims to help us understand leadership by examining these myths in reverse order. Today, I would like to share a few thoughts on this topic. To function effectively as a leader, it is essential to grasp the basic concepts of leadership. Leadership is the art and process of knowing the right things, doing the right things, and teaching others the right things. Here are five terms that define leadership, outlining what it truly is:
1. Leadership is Purpose: Dr. Myles Munroe stated that when purpose is not known, abuse is inevitable. To become an effective leader, you must first be aware of your life’s purpose. The driving force of leadership comes from your purpose and the conviction derived from your values. As a leader, you should lead people effectively in your area of strength and purpose.
2.Leadership is Service: The core of leadership is service. Just because someone occupies a significant position with a grand title does not mean they are enjoying their role. Fostering direction, leading by example, and caring for the welfare of others encapsulate true service. As Jesus said, anyone who wants to be a leader must first be a servant, emphasizing that the essence of leadership stems from service.
3. Leadership is Responsibility: Leadership is not merely about being in charge. A true leader takes responsibility for themselves and for others. For instance, our country South Sudan suffers from neglect because we don’t take responsibility, we lack self-leadership. How can one eat or drink water and then drop the plastic container on the floor? This behavior demonstrates our level of leadership awareness and orientation.
4. Leadership is Decision-Making: Decision-making and policy formulation are critical aspects of leadership that determine the well-being of those you lead. From the beginning of your leadership journey to the end, you will be faced with decisions, each with the power to impact the future of your followers. It is essential to make decisions that favor the people you lead—not just temporary solutions, but decisions that will bring long-term benefits, even if they require enduring some pain.
5. Leadership is Problem-Solving: If you lack the capacity to solve problems for your people, you should reconsider your role in leadership. Leadership is not about showmanship; it requires developing technical skills and problem-solving abilities. The platform of leadership is a system designed by God to address the pain and problems faced by people. Therefore, always remember that leadership is not merely about occupying a position; it is fundamentally about serving others.
I will recommend our government in south sudan to demonstrate the basic concepts of leadership before the storm wipe us all from the face of this beautiful ancestral land which is rich in natural resources and love among its people sixty-four tribes.
May God bring peace in our beloved south sudan.
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