Housing the Poor on the African Continent: Reconsidering Ubuntu Philosophy

This book explores the circumstances surrounding state-provided, low-cost housing for people at the lower end of the housing market in Africa. It deploys Ubuntu philosophy to unpack the provision of housing security to citizens, arguing that interpreting housing rights within Ubuntu philosophy recognises the spirit of reciprocity and collective solidarity as fundamental to meeting the housing needs of low-income groups. In essence, the volume reflects on the values of Ubuntu and informs both policy and practice by guiding policymakers, researchers, and practitioners with the episteme of basic human rights and the Ubuntu philosophy. It pointedly grapples with issues that resonate with efforts by African governments to protect vulnerable citizens from multidimensional poverty, homelessness, gender-neutral policies, and self-help housing schemes. The book’s insights raise red flags concerning the realisation of Ubuntu as a vehicle earmarked to deliver adequate and sustainable housing delivery outcomes. The volume is a must-read for academics, researchers, practitioners, government officials, and leaders from various sectors.

Mfundo Mandla Masuku is an Associate Professor in the School of Built Environment and Development Studies at the University of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. He has published more than 37 articles, five book chapters and one edited book. His research areas include inclusive education, food security, African studies, and gender.

Oliver Mtapuri is an Associate Professor of Development Studies at the University of KwaZulu Natal, South Africa. He has published 75 journal articles, 10 book chapters and three edited books. His areas of research interest include poverty and inequality, redistribution, climate change, community-based tourism, research methodology and project management.

Primrose Thandekile Sabela is a Senior Lecturer in the School of Development Studies at the University of Mpumalanga, South Africa. She has published eight articles and two book chapters. Her research areas of interest include African development, gender and development and inclusive education.

Nomusa M. Mlondo is employed as a Research Director in the Office of the Premier in Mpumalanga, South Africa. She has published one book chapter, and her research interests include African epistemologies, inclusive education, African feminism and African philosophy.

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