Abstract:
This paper examines the incorporation of ethical leadership within the socialism
framework established by Julius Kambarage Nyerere, the founding father of
Tanzania, to advance sustainable development in the nation. The study
employed a descriptive design utilizing quantitative research methodology. A
sample of 484 individuals from various groups, including government, civil
society, academia, and corporate sectors in Tanzania, was selected via
purposive sampling. Ninety-four (94) completed Google Form questionnaires,
which were collected via a link and returned as an Excel sheet. Quantitative
data were evaluated using IBM SPSS Statistics version 22 and given as
frequencies and percentages. The findings indicated that integrity is a
particularly challenging aspect for contemporary leaders to maintain. It is
shown that ethical leadership is crucial for attaining sustainable development.
It further posited that leaders do not value ethical leadership in decision
making. The study found that corruption, insufficient accountability, and
political involvement are the three foremost impediments to ethical leadership.
Strategies identified for integrating Nyerere’s ethical principles into
contemporary leadership in Tanzania include integrity and anti-corruption
practices, the promotion of self-reliance and sustainable development, the
advancement of national unity and inclusivity, and the incorporation of
Nyerere’s ethical philosophy into curricula. The study concludes by contributing
to the discourse on ethical leadership, providing ideas that may drive Tanzania
towards a more sustainable and equitable future. The report advises leaders to
prioritize integrity in everyday management and strengthen ethical leadership
standards to attain sustainable development.
