The Community's Culture and Transformative Leadership Style of the Community Governance

Abstract

The study aimed at examining the influence of the Meru community's cultural practices on the adoption and implementation of transformative leadership styles in community governance in Tanzania. Specifically, it sought to explore cultural leadership within the practice of the Meru community, assess the effectiveness of these cultural leadership practices in facilitating transformative leadership, and determine the impact of community culture on the leadership style within the Meru community. The study employed an interpretivist philosophy and a qualitative approach, it focused on Akheri Ward to investigate the intricate dynamics between cultural norms and leadership practices. The the study used the sample of 34 respondents, the number was determined by saturation principle, and data collection methods, including interviews and document analysis. Thematic analysis was used to identify patterns and insights, ensuring the validity and reliability of the findings through pilot testing and reflective practices. Ethical considerations were rigorously addressed to protect participants and maintain research integrity. The findings of this study indicate that cultural leadership within the Meru community is profoundly shaped by the pivotal role of elders, who serve as custodians of cultural values and guide inclusive decision-making processes. Elders facilitate a consultative approach to land and resource management, promoting community welfare and ensuring that collective voices are heard. From the findings, the study concludes that while these traditional leaders drive transformative changes across various sectors, such as agriculture and education, they face challenges like generational gaps and the tension between preserving cultural heritage and adapting to modern realities. This duality can delay responses to urgent issues and complicate the integration of contemporary ideas. The study recommends actively engaging youth in governance discussions and fostering adaptability among leaders to ensure that cultural values evolve in tandem with current needs. By doing so, the Meru community can enhance resilience and promote progress while maintaining the integrity of its cultural identity. vi