Ubuntu and Batho pele as principles for social work provision in the remote communities of the Global South: A narrative literature review
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.38140/ijss-2026.vol6.1.06Keywords:
Batho pele, global south, indigenous knowledge system, remote communities, social work, UbuntuAbstract
Although the African continent is culturally rich and diverse, the social work profession has largely been informed by Western norms and standards. Consequently, certain Western interventions are frequently rendered ineffective due to their failure to respect and accommodate African values and ethics. Significant progress has been made in decolonisation across various fields, yet an implicit imposition of Western ethics and values remains evident. This narrative literature review explores how the principles of Ubuntu and Batho Pele can enhance culturally responsive, inclusive, and socially just social work services in remote communities of the Global South. The article posits that the integration of Ubuntu values with Batho Pele principles offers an African-centred framework capable of advancing social justice, dignity, participation, and effective service delivery in communities historically marginalised by Western-oriented intervention models. These principles provide practical, ethical, and culturally grounded foundations capable of transforming social work service delivery in remote communities of the Global South. The incorporation of Ubuntu and Batho Pele principles into social work education, policy, and practice represents a crucial step towards achieving socially just, inclusive, and decolonised welfare services.
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