Ubuntu, a foundational African philosophy emphasising human dignity, communal relationships, and collective responsibility, is often cited as a framework for ethical leadership. This paper examines the practical applicability of Ubuntu in local governance by analysing the roles of traditional leaders, councillors, and Members of Parliament in Zimbabwe's rural districts of Nkayi and Lower Gwelo. Using a qualitative case study approach, including key informant interviews, focus groups, and document analysis, the study investigates the alignment of leadership practices with Ubuntu's ethical principles. Findings reveal a significant gap between Ubuntu ideals and governance realities: political patronage, limited citizen participation, unequal resource distribution, and marginalisation of youth and women prevail despite leaders invoking Ubuntu rhetorically. These practices undermine social cohesion, community trust, and the effective implementation of devolution. The study concludes that embedding Ubuntu's relational ethics in local governance could enhance accountability, inclusive decision-making, and sustainable rural development.
Ncube et al. (Tue,) studied this question.
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