Leadership in Practice

  Unravelling Competencies Without Agency: The Concept of Impact as Empowerment in Development Partnerships Introduction In the realm of development partnerships, the dynamics between competencies and agency play a crucial role in determining the effectiveness of initiatives. Competencies, often defined as the skills, knowledge, and abilities individuals or organisations possess, are essential for driving positive change. However, when these competencies lack agency – the capacity to act and make decisions independently – the potential impact of development efforts may be compromised. This article explores the concept of "competencies without agency". It proposes a paradigm shift by conceptualizing "impact as empowerment" to enhance the ability of individuals and partnerships to serve as genuine development agents. Competencies Without Agency Technical, managerial, or adaptive competencies are fundamental building blocks for any development initiative. They