NAVIGATING COMPLEXITY: EXPLORING THE INTERPLAY BETWEEN MANAGEMENT STYLES, TECHNOLOGICAL CONTEXT, AND FIRM ECONOMIC PERFORMANCE IN MALI

Abstract

Mali, a West African nation, grapples with persistent economic challenges stemming from military coups, political instability, and international conflicts, exacerbating its already precarious developmental trajectory. Despite two decades of implementing a global innovation-driven development policy, the country's economic progress remains contingent upon the resilience and evolution of its firms. However, the volatile operating environment presents formidable obstacles to the sustainability of these enterprises, forcing managers to navigate turbulence while striving to enhance economic performance. In Mali, economic conditions are characterized by complexity, ambiguity, and volatility, necessitating managerial adaptability and contingency measures for survival and success. This paper explores the intricate dynamics of economic performance generation within Malian firms, highlighting the pivotal role of managerial flexibility and adaptive strategies amidst persistent turbulence. Drawing on insights from upper echelons and contingency theories, it examines how Malian firms serve as a compelling case study, shedding light on the challenges and opportunities inherent in navigating unstable institutional and resource dependencies. By elucidating the interplay between managerial decision-making and environmental exigencies, this study offers valuable insights for practitioners and policymakers seeking to foster sustainable economic development in Mali and other contexts marked by volatility and uncertainty.