The perceived leadership attributes of leaders in Namibian regional electricity distribution utilities

Abstract

This research was a qualitative study on the perceptions of leaders in Namibian Regional Electricity Distribution utilities. The study aimed to address the knowledge gap in leadership attributes of regional electricity distribution utility leaders, required for the effective supply and distribution of electricity services in Namibia.

Regional Electricity Distribution utilities in Namibia are institutions responsible for the supply and distribution of electricity services. A developing country, Namibia has a low electrification rate, however, there is a growing demand for reliable and affordable electricity services. The increasing penetration of renewable energy technologies in Namibia further subjects the utilities to additional challenges.

Regional Electricity Distribution utility leaders need to respond effectively to the changing needs of electricity consumers and suppliers, to ensure that utilities continue to provide and effectively deliver the required services. The success of utilities in delivering quality services highly depends on the leadership of such organisations. Hence, understanding the leadership attributes and leadership styles of Namibia’s regional utility leaders is therefore essential for electricity stakeholders including policymakers, regulators, consumers and suppliers. In undertaking this study, an interpretive approach to qualitative data collected from the interview participants by making use of guided interviews was adopted. The interviews were undertaken amongst selected Executives, Chief Executive Officers and Board Members of the REDs. The findings were interpreted using thematic analysis, and the results from emerging themes are presented.

The research found that leadership has many definitions and there are many leadership styles. However, each individual has unique personal attributes, and this informs their leadership styles in a particular situation and vice versa. Similarly, the study founds multiple leadership challenges facing utility leaders, including political misunderstandings, and leadership buy-in. Utility leaders need consistent engagement with customers and suppliers to answer their changing needs. And consequently, leading to their utilities delivering effective supply and iii distribution services. The study further found the need for distribution utility leaders to consistently monitor the level of service being delivered, the level of employee engagements and that they should adapt their leadership styles to fit such situations.

The study recommends policymakers to ensure that, the operations of the REDs are harmonized, and that consumers and suppliers have similar experiences regardless of the RED. The study further recommends investments in utility leaders' training and development. In addition, utility leaders must continue to invest in their distribution networks and adopt new technologies. And finally, the Leaders must also create platforms to exchange knowledge and experiences.