Promoting Psychological and Mental Well-Being Competencies in Nursing Leadership: Advocating the Adoption of the 2025 National Nursing Leadership Competency Framework in South Africa

Lindiwe Zungu; Mirriam Matandela

doi:10.25159/2958-3918/20449

Authors

Lindiwe Zungu University of South Africa
Mirriam Matandela National Department of Health

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.25159/2958-3918/20449

Keywords:

Nursing Leadership Competency Framework, psychological well-being, mental health, nurse leaders, South Africa

Abstract

Nursing leaders in South Africa play a pivotal role in shaping healthcare outcomes, yet their psychological and mental well-being often remains overlooked. This neglect contributes to burnout, reduced effectiveness and compromised patient care. This perspective article argues for the urgent integration of psychological and mental well-being competencies into leadership development, grounded in the newly developed Nursing Leadership Competency Framework by the national Department of Health. Drawing on the framework as a guiding reference, the article highlights the strategic importance of resilience, stress management and emotional intelligence as leadership competencies. It further situates these within broader national and global priorities, including the National Development Plan 2030, Agenda 2063 of the African Union and the Sustainable Development Goals of the United Nations. Strategic recommendations emphasise structured interventions, formal support systems, policy advocacy and research. The article concludes with a call for expanded research and scholarly engagement to sustain momentum in advancing nurse leaders’ psychological well-being.

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