During our recent leadership training in late September, we embarked on a journey to explore the complexities and challenges shaping Africa’s future. This session was conducted by Annette Pelkmans, professor of International economics at Sophia University Institute in Italy and University of the Philippines. She centered her approach on “wicked” problems and the importance of relationships in collaborative problem-solving. Beginning with an understanding of these “wicked” problems, we moved through the 6X1 methodology—a framework designed to navigate complex issues. Today, we focus on the heartbeat of this methodology: the quality of our relationships, the true driver behind our vision of a “New Africa.”
Understanding Wicked Problems
Mrs Pelkmans explained that wicked problems aren’t “wicked” in a moral sense but refer to complex issues—poverty, climate change, education, inequality—that resist simple solutions. These issues interconnect across social, economic, cultural, and political systems, forming a web where actions in one area affect others. She also added that addressing wicked problems requires a broad, systems-based approach, and, as we learned, traditional methods fall short. We need to think differently, embrace complexity, and, most importantly, collaborate.
Complexity and Collaboration
Wicked problems remind us of complexity theory, which tells us that in any interconnected system, actions create ripples. Society, like a natural ecosystem, is highly interconnected, where changes in one area affect others. Tackling such issues demands collaboration across backgrounds, sectors, and cultures. Solutions are no longer the domain of single actors; only through collective effort can we unlock diverse perspectives and resources to solve these pressing issues. This recognition led Mrs Pelkmans to share the 6X1 methodology—a structured approach to handling complexity in collaborative, step-by-step ways.
The 6X1 methodology includes six essential steps:
- Look Around – Understand local challenges and their context.
- Sum Up the Ideas – Prioritize the most impactful issues.
- Involve – Collaborate with diverse groups.
- Roll Up Our Sleeves – Take meaningful action.
- How Can We Improve? – Reflect and adapt continuously.
- Party Time – Celebrate achievements to strengthen community bonds.
This framework gives structure without oversimplifying complex issues. By following these steps, we approach problems holistically, setting the foundation for impactful, sustained change.
Relationships as the Motor of Change
Annette Pelkmans is more than convinced that the core of effective collaboration lies in strong, trust-based relationships. According to her experience, success in tackling wicked problems depends on the depth and quality of the relationships within the teams. She as well sugested that ,trust, mutual respect, and valuing each person’s contributions can drive our ability to achieve lasting change. Therefore, the process—how we build trust, handle conflict, and support one another—directly impacts outcomes. Relationships formed on these principles can enable us to reach the New Africa we aspire to create.
Context and Opportunity: The Parable of the Seed
In order to help participants to understand the issue at hand, Annette used a powerful metaphor on how environments shape potential: the parable of the seed. Seeds sown in fertile soil thrive, while those landing on rocky or thorny ground struggle. Similarly, both individual and national success rely on contextual factors, such as geographic advantages, historical legacy, and economic infrastructure. Too often, people attribute poverty to personal failings, overlooking systemic factors. Poverty can limit long-term planning, hinder risk-taking, and trap individuals in a “poverty penalty” where survival becomes the primary focus.
The Role of Agency: Voice and Exit
According to Mrs Pelkmans, we are not the victims of our environment. Unlike seeds, we have agency—the power to reshape our environment and influence outcomes. When challenges arise, we can respond with Voice or Exit. Voice means staying engaged, offering guidance, and working toward solutions. Exit represents disengagement, which is sometimes necessary if an environment proves too toxic. Voice requires loyalty and patience, while Exit can signify a need to move on. Both responses are valid, yet loyalty and a shared commitment often lead us to choose Voice, seeking collective solutions.
With these elements—collaboration, structure, quality relationships, self-awareness, and collective responsibility—we can navigate and address the complex, interconnected challenges before us. This shared journey strengthens our resolve and, together, we plant seeds for a brighter, more resilient Africa.
