Ubuntu, Peacebuilding, and Development in Africa: Reflections on the Promises and Challenges of a Popular Concept

Abstract

Faced with the constant criticism that “nothing good can come out of Africa,” many African scholars and peace activists, as well those from other parts of the world, have identified Ubuntu and presented it as one of Africa’s most significant gifts to the global community. Where Africa is associated with violence and destruction, Ubuntu has been offered as Africa’s resource for peacebuilding and development. Where critics wish to sustain narratives of doom and gloom for Africa, proponents of Ubuntu regard it as Africa’s highest selling point in the domain of peacebuilding, conflict transformation, and sustainable development. This chapter provides a critical reflection on the applicability of Ubuntu in peacebuilding and development in Africa. It is informed by the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal No. 16, which seeks to “[p]romote peaceful and inclusive societies for sustainable development, provide access to justice for all and build effective, accountable and inclusive institutions at all levels.” In fact, this goal partly seems to interface with the concept Ubuntu as both speak to inclusivity, albeit from different perspectives. While appreciative of the contribution of Ubuntu, the chapter argues that Ubuntu needs to be reconceptualized in order to become more inclusive, particularly in the face of various excluded groups.