Charles’ story

How CSCLeaders changed Charles’ approach to collaboration

Charles Asiedu, Managing Director, Ecobank

Prior to CSCLeaders 2016, Charles Asiedu, Managing Director at Ecobank, Malawi, was searching for ways to create a bigger impact – not only in his organization, but also in society. That year, his home country Malawi had faced severe hunger crises following adverse weather conditions, which negatively affected the production of maize, the staple food of the country. That meant having to import cereals at prohibitive costs in order to feed the population.

During his time on the programme, Charles, who was a quick thinker and used to acting immediately, saw the need to slow down and assess the problem to find an effective solution. He decided to take on the hunger issue using the things he learned about collaboration at CSCLeaders.

“I engaged the government agency responsible for the food procurement and suggested a collaborative approach involving the Ministry of Finance, the Central Bank, the agency and Ecobank to resolve the food crisis. We brought the partners together and, after sharing what role we each thought we could play, together we designed a solution. Now we are mobilizing $50 million to support the importation of maize to help feed eight million Malawians. Prior to CSCLeaders I wouldn’t have thought more broadly about bringing in other partners to handle the crisis.

“Collaboration – I thought I knew it and practiced it but now I understand the real meaning and potential impact on society.”