Contested Notions of Ubuntu as a Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Theory in Africa: An Exploratory Literature Review

Tendai Makwara (), Dennis Yao Dzansi and Crispen Chipunza
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Tendai Makwara: Department of Business Support Studies, Faculty of Management Sciences, Central University of Technology, Bloemfontein 9300, South Africa
Dennis Yao Dzansi: CUT Entrepreneurship Development Unit, Faculty of Management Sciences, Central University of Technology, Bloemfontein 9300, South Africa
Crispen Chipunza: Department of Business Management, Faculty of Management Sciences, Central University of Technology, Bloemfontein 9300, South Africa

Sustainability, 2023, vol. 15, issue 7, 1-11

Abstract: Culture significantly influences corporate social responsibility (CSR) behaviours and business ethics in Africa. In that context, various claims exist about how Ubuntu ethics can also serve as a practicable theory to guide CSR actions. In line with such claims, this study critically interrogated the practicability of utilising an Ubuntu-based approach to guide CSR actions among African businesses. It drew perspectives from published theoretical and empirical literature focusing on Ubuntu as a CSR construct. In conclusion, based on the analysed views, the article argues that although the Ubuntu philosophy adds valuable insight into how firms and managers in Africa can conduct their CSR activities, its transition from a cultural philosophy to a business ethics theory needs to be revised. This implies that the current aspirations of Ubuntu-based CSR relevant to local contexts may not be realised soon.

Keywords: Africa; CSR; ubuntu theory; stakeholder theory (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: O13 Q Q0 Q2 Q3 Q5 Q56 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2023
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