Leading beyond multidimensional poverty

A paramount challenge of our times is multidimensional poverty; a plight that extends beyond monetary deprivation and touches on the essence of well-being. African leaders have to hone in on these seven foundational aspects as mandates for a step change in the continent's trajectory.

Unlocking latent potential: Picture Africa as an alchemy of dreams and talents. Every person shackled by multidimensional poverty is a dream deferred, a potential unmet.

Youth: Africa's youth is its opportunity. To harness this demographic dividend, health, technology and education infrastructure is indispensable.

Holistic evolution: Beyond the confines of gross domestic product (GDP) lies the broader canvas of societal development.

Avoid tunnel vision: Pure economic ambition, if not rooted in health, education, and environmental protections, are like mirages in a desert - tantalisingly close, yet perpetually elusive. The true essence of progress encompasses multifaceted domains.

Social harmony: This is at risk when parts of society are side-lined. Unity demands that every individual is valued and - at the very least - can find confidence in the protection of their constitutional rights.

Preserving national tranquillity: Ignored realms of deprivation can metamorphose into epicentres of discord. By proactively addressing these, leaders uplift communities and fortify national stability.

Leaders can take advantage of these multidimensional opportunities:

Visionary blueprint: Crafting policies that resonate with every citizen's aspirations ensures a holistic tackle against all poverty dimensions.

Resource stewardship: Effective allocation to sectors like healthcare and education is the cornerstone of transformation.

Global alliances: Engaging with international partners magnifies resources, expertise, and innovative solutions.

Championing every voice: In the grand theatre of progress, every role - every individual - is vital.

Architecting the future: Infrastructure is the backbone of prosperity. Every brick, every beam counts.

Empowerment at the roots: True change emanates from the grassroots. Local governance is the torchbearer of this localised transformation.

Data - the beacon of insight: Informed decisions, guided by extensive research and analytics, pave the path to success.

Galvanising collective conscience: Mobilising the collective psyche ensures an unwavering commitment to the mission.

Guardians in adversity: The leadership mantle demands foresight and agility in crisis navigation.

Safeguarding through legislation: Law is the protective shield, ensuring rights, equality, and aligned missions between sectors.

At this pivotal juncture, African leaders stand on the cusp of a renaissance. Addressing multidimensional poverty is not just a response, but an obvious revolutionary stride toward a luminous future.

Embracing this mission could well be Africa's magnum opus, its unparalleled legacy to the world. What, then, do we need to forge a different path? The only frontier is the obvious one - pursue a profound shift in intention and follow it up with action that is future favourable. We need to lead beyond now.

*Ethel Kuuya is a leader, speaker, entrepreneur, author and coach. This is an excerpt from her debut book, Leading Beyond Now: Five Commitments That Will Make Africa Thrive.