Prof Philip du Toit and Prof Alfred Brunsdon from the Faculty of Theology at North-West University’s (NWU’s) Mahikeng Campus have lent an experienced hand in editing the book The Theological Perspective on Reimagining Leadership in Post-COVID Africa.
Prof Du Toit specialises in New Testament theology, while Prof Brunsdon focuses on practical theology. Both scholars are deeply engaged with the leadership challenges specific to the African context through their work.
This publication advances theological perspectives on the re-imagination of leadership within a post-Covid African context.
Prof Du Toit says since the effects of Covid-19 are felt on various levels of society, including the believing community, a need was identified to guide leaders on various levels. However, the need for moral, ethical leadership in Africa can be identified even before the pandemic.
“In many respects, Covid-19 merely enhanced the inherent leadership crisis in Africa. While there are existing publications on the theological understanding of leadership, this book specifically focuses on addressing leadership in this unique time and space,” he adds.
The book comprises 11 chapters, with the first five offering bibliological perspectives on leadership (one from the Old Testament and four from the New Testament). Chapters six and seven present practical theological perspectives, chapters eight and nine cover missiological perspectives, and chapter 10 provides an ethical perspective. Chapter 11 features a summative reflection and synthesis of the various contributions.
Each chapter is based on original research specific to the expertise of the contributing researchers. The bibliological perspectives delve into the character and foundation of biblical leadership, while the practical theological and missiological sections focus on the desired outcomes of moral and ethical leadership.
"An ethical perspective on leadership emphasises the moral and ethical foundations of virtuous leadership. The main thesis of the book advocates for leadership in Africa that is selfless, just and fair, modelled after Jesus’ example. It emphasises leadership that stems from a conversion experience, is animated by the indwelling Christ, and leads to spiritual maturity, ultimately fostering hope, transformation and emotional restoration," adds Prof Du Toit
