Governing green: Unpacking inclusive leadership for sustainability transitions in agriculture

This study investigates the role of green inclusive leadership in accelerating sustainability transitions within the agricultural sector of Ngawi, East Java, Indonesia. Drawing upon resource orchestration theory, the research conceptualises green inclusive leadership through four key dimensions: vision and sustainability messaging, upskilling and support, budget allocation, and inclusive leadership practices. Using an exploratory sequential mixed-methods design, qualitative data were collected from 47 diverse stakeholders, including government officials, extension workers, and community leaders. These insights were informed by a quantitative survey administered to 657 farmers across 19 sub-districts. Structural equation modelling revealed that green inclusive leadership significantly enhances farmers’ adoption of sustainable agricultural practices by strengthening social norms, building trust, and increasing perceptions of government support. The impact of leadership was moderated by gender, highlighting the need for inclusive and gender-responsive policy frameworks that address diverse farmer needs and promote equitable participation. The study contributes to leadership theory by contextualising green inclusive leadership within the agricultural sustainability challenges of a developing country and advances methodological rigour through robust mixed-method validation. It provides actionable guidance for policymakers, agricultural leaders, and development practitioners seeking to implement culturally aligned, participatory leadership strategies that effectively promote environmental stewardship and rural resilience. This research bridges leadership theory with cleaner production scholarship by linking leadership mechanisms to the adoption of green practices, offering critical insights that support broader sustainability goals in emerging economies.