A Public Sector Leadership Framework for Accelerating Economic Development in South Africa
Keywords:
public sector leadership; economic development; South Africa; governance; corruption; policy uncertainty; institutional weaknesses; Public Sector Leadership FrameworkAbstract
This study aimed to develop a public sector leadership framework for achieving higher economic development. A qualitative approach with an exploratory research design was employed, and 20 participants (Department Heads) from relevant government departments in South Africa were selected through purposive sampling. Thematic analysis was conducted on data collected through semi-structured interviews. Several significant challenges were identified within the public sector leadership, which included institutional weaknesses, historical inequalities, corruption, lack of accountability, inadequate resource allocation, resistance to change, ethical leadership deficits, compliance issues with legislative frameworks, and insufficient development of skills and resources. These issues collectively contributed to the adverse impact on economic development, such as diminished investor confidence, hindered economic growth, increased policy uncertainty, economic stagnation, erosion of investor trust, a decline in corporate competitiveness, and inefficiencies in governmental service delivery. Through the proposed public sector leadership framework, key recommendations are proposed to address the challenges and enhance economic development in South Africa.
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