Utilization of ubuntu bowl in social work processes: the way to go towards attainment of social development in Africa

Abstract

The practice of Social Work in Africa is making a turnaround towards finding relevant, contextual and sustainable theories, models, frameworks and strategies that are well positioned to meet needs of African people. Many African Social Work academics, researchers and practitioners are speaking in one accord towards the localization of Social Work education and practice through embracing the dictates of Ubuntu Theory. To that effect, this paper presents the Ubuntu Cycle in implementing the Ubuntu Theory and finding appropriate as well as sustainable Social Work interventions for socio-economic development of African economies. It has also been noted that the spirit of Ubuntu in Africa existed since time immemorial and is being followed up with a new face emanating in religious circles and regroupings done through migration and globalization trends. The Africanization of Social Development in Africa is taking centre stage and expected to bring positive Social Development through restoring collectivism, humanity, norm of reciprocity and value for traditional systems in solving problems presented by Social Work clientele. Thus, ‘Ubuntuing’ of Social Work in Africa is long overdue and should take its place during this critical moment of deepening poverty in many African countries.

Keywords: Ubuntuing, humaneness, Ubuntu Bowl, Social Work, Spirituality, Social Development, Africa