Ubuntu Leadership in Organisational Contexts: A Review of the Literature and Suggestions for Further Research

Kerryn Powell; Anton Grobler

doi:10.25159/1998-8125/19704

Authors

Kerryn Powell UNISA Graduate School of Business Leadership https://orcid.org/0000-0003-2676-8678
Anton Grobler University of South Africa https://orcid.org/0000-0003-3017-3247

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.25159/1998-8125/19704

Keywords:

African leadership, Afrocentric leadership, Ubuntu leadership, organisational Ubuntu

Abstract

Purpose: This study investigates how Ubuntu leadership has been portrayed within organisational contexts using a systematic literature review methodology to synthesise the literature in a thorough and transparent manner.

Design/methodology/approach: A computerised search of eight databases was conducted for peer-reviewed theoretical and empirical studies within organisational contexts, published from 1994 over a 25-year period, using the keywords “Ubuntu,” “African,” “Afrocentric,” “relational leadership or management,” and “cultural leadership or management in Africa.” A decision tree was applied revealing 74 articles for review, classification, and analysis.

Findings: Results reveal a lack of robust empirical studies while academic interest in Ubuntu leadership within organisational contexts is growing. In addition, researchers are calling for blended leadership approaches in Africa given that Ubuntu leadership within organisational contexts is regarded as relational, participatory, and values-based.

Research implications: This article contributes to the development of organisational Ubuntu leadership theory and practice as well as providing further direction for developing this leadership construct through a clearer picture of the state of this field of research.

Originality/value: The study offers a unique systematic review of literature on Ubuntu in organisational leadership contexts over a 25-year period, providing a robust foundation and roadmap to extend Ubuntu leadership theory.

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