The Relevance of Transformational Leadership for Strengthening Ecumenical Unity and Institutional Renewal in the Christian Council of Togo

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https://doi.org/10.71064/spu.amjr.11.1.2026.523
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Vol. 11 No. 1 (2026): African Multidisciplinary Journal of Research

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Odie Adjoa Djifa
St. Paul's University

Abstract

Ecumenical institutions play a vital role in fostering Christian unity and providing a collective 
moral witness within diverse ecclesial and socio-political contexts. In Togo, the Christian 
Council of Togo (CCT) was established to promote unity among Protestant churches and 
engage society on issues of justice, peace, and development. However, the Council continues to 
face challenges related to leadership effectiveness, internal cohesion, and public credibility. 
This study examines the relevance of transformational leadership for strengthening ecumenical 
unity and institutional renewal within the CCT. Adopting a qualitative, interpretivist approach, 
data were collected through semi-structured interviews with approximately thirty participants, 
including national and regional leaders, member church representatives, and youth and women 
involved in ecumenical activities. Thematic analysis was used to interpret participants’ 
experiences and perceptions. Findings indicate that the CCT’s limited effectiveness is shaped 
by internal factors such as leadership rivalries, weak governance, denominational competition, 
communication gaps, and resource conflicts, as well as external pressures including political 
sensitivities and socio-economic constraints. The study concludes that transformational 
leadership, complemented by servant and relational approaches, provides a practical 
framework for promoting unity, restoring credibility, and enhancing institutional effectiveness. 

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How to Cite
The Relevance of Transformational Leadership for Strengthening Ecumenical Unity and Institutional Renewal in the Christian Council of Togo . (2026). African Multidisciplinary Journal of Research, 11(1), 1-22. https://doi.org/10.71064/spu.amjr.11.1.2026.523

How to Cite

The Relevance of Transformational Leadership for Strengthening Ecumenical Unity and Institutional Renewal in the Christian Council of Togo . (2026). African Multidisciplinary Journal of Research, 11(1), 1-22. https://doi.org/10.71064/spu.amjr.11.1.2026.523

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