Beyond rhetoric: Exposing the dependency on Western instruments in African leadership research – A systematic review

Abstract

Orientation: Leadership research in Africa often relies on measurement instruments whose cultural relevance and contextual suitability remain uncertain.
Research purpose: To examine the origins and types of leadership measurement instruments used in organisational research in Africa, with a specific focus on local development and contextual adaptation.
Motivation for the study: Persistent challenges exist regarding the cultural applicability and psychometric validity of leadership measures, given Africa’s distinct social structures, values and linguistic diversity.
Research approach/design and method: A systematic literature review was conducted using the Preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses (PRISMA) framework. Studies (2010–2025) were sourced from databases such as Scopus, Web of Science, EBSCOhost and Google Scholar. Inclusion criteria required organisational leadership focus in Africa and the use of measurement instruments. Methodological quality and risk of bias were assessed.
Main findings: Analysis of 117 studies revealed a strong dominance of Western-developed instruments, such as the Authentic Leadership Inventory (ALI), Multifactor Leadership Questionnaire (MLQ) and Transformational Leadership Questionnaire (TLQ), often used without adaptation. African-developed measures remain limited, although gradual growth is evident. A notable gap exists in Lusophone and Francophone research.
Practical/managerial implications: Researchers and practitioners should prioritise culturally sensitive adaptation or development of leadership measures to enhance validity and relevance in African organisational contexts.
Contribution/value-add: This study highlights the need for integrating local perspectives and advancing methodological rigour, contributing to more contextually grounded leadership research in Africa.