AFRICAN TIME: IS IT A BOTTLENECK TO DEVELOPMENT

 At a recent training there was a delay in starting the function. When I asked the cause of the delay it was mentioned that Africans do not keep time( Esawa yo mudugavu). The English interpretation is "African Time". I believe it is offensive to generalize that Africans do not keep time because there is a section of Africans who really respect and keep time. However there is a general disrespect for time and as a culture we know it. Some stereotypes such as poor time management have dragged the continent behind. In most of the books that I have read it has been emphasized that time is money. It is said that one would rather lose money than time. This is because money can be recovered but not time. 


What has enabled certain countries such as the United States and China to develop? It is largely attributed to respect to time. I have observed that the most successful people in the world do not compromise time management. If there is an attribute we need to strive to emulate from the wealthy people is time management. Even a poor person is likely to become wealthy if he respects time. Some potential employees have lost job opportunities because they arrived to the interview past time. Time is such an important resource that many organizations do not compromise with employees who do not respect deadlines. In the same way we respect organizational time we should also prioritize time management in our personal lives. A lot can be achieved if we redefine our time management. So many societies have a lot of resources but without respect for time management opportunities are lost. 

If there is any thing we need to advocate for as Africans it is respect for time. A lot of time is wasted in jam and this has an implication on our economy. Many businesses have lost customers because they open late or delay to respond to customer queries. With a fast changing and globalized world we need a paradigm shift as a nation. Every thing is now fast paced with instant coffee and food. This has caught up with all other dimensions of life and we can not be left behind.

HOW TO REDEEM TIME

1.Time is a scarce resource

2.Getting serious with our lives

3.Setting clear goals

4. Planning our lives

5. Not compromising on time management

6.Role modelling time management

7.Recognizing people who respect time

Time is a scarce resource. It is a disrespected resource in Africa with statements such as African Time. With all due respect many Africans keep and respect time. But the cultural stereotypes of African time need to be redefined. Africa is a rich continent with valuable minerals and good weather but why should time retard our development?

Phillip Kiryowa

Finance and Leadership Coach(PCC)

+256752615916

For Financial freedom and Sustainable businesses. 

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