Essentials of General Management in Africa

This book provides a comprehensive overview of management in the African context, covering planning, organizing, staffing, directing, and controlling. It discusses the unique characteristics of Africa and African countries, such as poverty, small and informal businesses, and infrastructure inadequacies, and includes illustrative real-life examples and experiential exercises. It is ideal for undergraduate and postgraduate students interested in the area and current and future practicing managers in African countries.

Format: Hardback
Length: 122 pages
Publication date: 23 April 2021
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This comprehensive overview of management practices in the African context stands as a pioneering work, serving as the inaugural volume in the new Essentials of Business and Management in Africa short-form textbook series. Spanning a wide range of managerial activities, regardless of functional specialization, the book is structured around a model of management that encompasses planning, organizing, staffing, directing, and controlling. After introducing each topic, the authors delve into the unique characteristics of Africa and its various countries, exploring how these factors shape the discussions at hand. For instance, factors such as relative poverty levels, the prevalence of small and informal businesses, and the inadequacy of infrastructure exert a profound influence on aspects of planning and decision-making, as well as employee motivation. Each chapter is accompanied by illustrative real-life examples and experiential exercises/short cases, fostering a deeper understanding of the subject matter.

The book begins with a broad introduction to the African continent, providing a foundational understanding of the region's cultural, economic, and political landscape. It then concludes with thoughtful discussions of ethical issues and corporate social responsibility, including the management philosophy of Ubuntu. This approach not only caters to undergraduate and postgraduate students with an interest in the African region but also holds significant appeal to current and aspiring managers working in African countries.

Given the limited existing literature on management in Africa, this book fills a significant gap in the business and management discourse. It offers valuable insights and practical knowledge to a broader audience, fostering a deeper understanding of the unique challenges and opportunities present in the African context. By providing a comprehensive and region-specific perspective, this book empowers individuals and organizations to navigate the complexities of management in Africa and contribute to the continent's growth and development.

Weight: 272g
Dimension: 145 x 225 x 14 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367435196