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When Workplace Bonds Undermine Accountability: A Reflection on Work Culture in Rwanda

​ In many Rwandan workplaces, the office is more than a place of employment—it is a shared life space. We share stories, advice, struggles, laughter, and sometimes even personal burdens. We build strong relationships. We learn to read each other’s emotions. Our culture emphasizes unity, care, and togetherness. When things are going well, this system feels powerful and human. But this same strength can quietly become a weakness. When Relationships Replace Responsibility Because of the bonds we create at work, small mistakes are often ignored or tolerated. Colleagues coach each other informally, cover for one another, or delay tough conversations in the name of harmony. Over time, this turns into a pattern—poor performance is normalized, and accountability weakens. This is not kindness; it is a leadership failure. True leadership is not about protecting comfort. It is about protecting standards. When individuals develop lazy attitudes or consistently underperform, but the team ke...

Paragraph Writing - Sample!

A paragraph may be argumentative, expository, narrative, or descriptive. In the following example, we will explore a single topic, "The Importance of Environmental Conservation in Rwanda," using the four forms.  Argumentative form Environmental conservation is crucial for Rwanda's sustainable development. With its rich biodiversity and fragile ecosystems, Rwanda's natural resources are constantly threatened by human activities such as deforestation, pollution, and habitat destruction. Failure to protect the environment not only jeopardizes the well-being of current generations but also compromises the ability of future generations to thrive. Therefore, stringent measures must be implemented to preserve Rwanda's natural heritage for the benefit of all its inhabitants. Expository Form Rwanda, a small yet diverse country in East Africa, boasts stunning landscapes ranging from lush rainforests to majestic mountains. However, this biodiversity is increasingly at risk d...

When Trust Turns Into a Blind Spot

​ Once upon a time, a visionary leader chose a different path. Instead of building a business only for profit, the leader set out to build one that changed lives. The goal was bold: challenge the status quo and do what had never been done before. This would not be an organization driven by hierarchy or favoritism, but by values. From day one, the foundations were clear: Everyone would feel supported. Everyone would be treated fairly and equally. There would be no conflict of interest. Systems would protect integrity, not personalities. In the beginning, the mission energized people. The culture felt safe, purposeful, and human. People believed they were part of something bigger than themselves. But growth brings complexity, and complexity tests leadership. As responsibilities increased, the leader leaned more heavily on a close circle of trusted individuals. Their loyalty seemed unquestionable. Their advice felt reliable. Their presence gave comfort in an increasingly demandi...

My Journey to the ALU

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  In the dynamic world of social entrepreneurship, it is the ability to constantly learn, adapt, and grow that truly sets leaders apart. As, the Managing Director of Earthenable , an innovative social enterprise, is a perfect embodiment of this growth mindset. My journey from a technical background in civil and building engineering to leading a complex business model at Earthenable is a testament to my adaptability and unique leadership style. My tenure at Earthenable has been marked by significant milestones and a relentless pursuit of excellence. For more than five years, I have held different roles from a Research and Development Associate, Quality Assurance associate, a District Manager, a Deputy Managing Director and now a Rwanda Managing Director . This has been at the helm of this intricate business model, navigating the challenges of the social enterprise sector with a steady hand and a clear vision. My technical background has served as a strong foundation, enabling me to ...

Bad Leadership and its Toxic Impact on Work Environment: A Roadmap to Change

August 28, 2023 Leadership is a key element in the success or failure of any organization. It is the driving force that guides the team towards achieving their goals. However, what happens when that force spirals into a negative realm? Bad leadership can have a detrimental effect on the work environment, leading to lower productivity, decreased morale, and higher employee turnover. This article delves into the toxic impact of bad leadership and proposes strategies for change. The Toxic Impact of Bad Leadership Bad leadership can create a toxic work environment, which can lead to several negative outcomes. 1. Decreased Productivity: Poor leadership often results in unclear instructions, inconsistent rules, and lack of direction. This can lead to confusion among team members, reducing productivity. 2. Lower Employee Morale: A toxic leader can quickly drain the energy of their team. Employees may feel undervalued, leading to a decrease in morale and motivation. 3. Increased Stress Levels:...

Modernising Rural Housing