By Themba Mbelengwa*
As the world grapples with unprecedented environmental challenges – rising temperatures, deforestation, and biodiversity loss – it becomes crucial to seek wisdom from diverse sources. One such source, often overlooked but profoundly insightful, is African philosophy.
Rooted in a deep understanding of nature and community, African philosophy offers timeless lessons that can guide us toward a sustainable future. Imagine a world where every decision about natural resources and environmental protection is made collectively, where ancient wisdom harmonises with modern science, and where the well-being of the community and the environment are seen as one. This is the vision that African philosophy presents – a vision that can help bridge the intergenerational gap and foster generational equity in our efforts to combat climate change.[1]
What is African Philosophy?
The word 'philosophy' comes from the Greek word philosophia, meaning 'love of wisdom. 'However, philosophy didn't start in Greece alone. African, Chinese, and Egyptian philosophies are much older, with African philosophy tracing its roots to ancient civilisations like the Nile Valley and Great Zimbabwe.[2] African philosophy teaches us that everything in life is interconnected. We are part of the natural world, not separate from it. This belief encourages us to take care of our environment because our well-being depends on it.[3]
A key idea in African philosophy is Ubuntu, which means 'I am because we are.' This principle highlights the importance of working together and taking care of each other. In terms of protecting the environment, Ubuntu suggests that we should adopt practices that are good for both people and nature.[4] It's a call to move away from individualism and embrace collective responsibility – a lesson the modern world desperately needs.
Challenges and criticisms
Some critics argue that African philosophy is too idealistic or not scientific enough but, they often overlook the practicality and wisdom embedded in African philosophies. For instance, traditional African practices like rotational farming, communal land management, and water conservation have proven effective for centuries.[5] These practices are not just theoretical; they are lived experiences that have sustained communities through generations.
The challenge lies in integrating these traditional practices with modern scientific approaches. By doing so, we can create innovative solutions to today's environmental crises.[6] For example, in Kenya, the Green Belt Movement, founded by Wangari Maathai, combined traditional knowledge of tree planting with modern environmental activism to combat deforestation and promote sustainable livelihoods.[7]
How African philosophy helps to protect the environment
African philosophy emphasised community-driven decision-making. In many African cultures, decisions about managing natural resources were made collectively, ensuring everyone's needs were considered.[8] This approach is different from many Western practices that focuses more on individual responsibility. By following African principles, we can promote shared responsibility and sustainable practices.
For example, the Great Green Wall Initiative – a project aimed at combating desertification across the Sahel region – is rooted in community participation and traditional knowledge. It is a testament to how African philosophy can inspire large-scale environmental action.[9]
African philosophy also values traditional ecological knowledge. For centuries, African communities have developed effective ways to manage their environment, from agroforestry to water harvesting.[10] Combining these traditional methods with modern science can lead to better solutions for environmental problems. For instance, traditional water conservation techniques can be enhanced with modern irrigation technologies to improve water security in drought-prone areas.[11]
Addressing Global Warming and Energy
Africa is at a crucial juncture, facing the dual challenge of mitigating global warming and transitioning to clean energy. The continent's diverse climates are highly vulnerable to climate change, which threatens food security, water availability, and livelihoods. Addressing these issues requires innovative, equitable approaches.[12]
African philosophy, with its emphasis on community and interconnectedness, offers valuable insights for a fair energy transition. Ubuntu suggests that energy solutions should benefit all members of society, especially the most vulnerable. Policies should focus on decentralised, community-based renewable energy projects like solar and wind systems tailored to local needs.[13] Community involvement in decision-making processes ensures these solutions are equitable and sustainable.[14]
Africa Leading in Climate Action
African countries have the potential to lead global climate change efforts by leveraging their unique cultural and philosophical perspectives. Initiatives like the Great Green Wall exemplify large-scale projects grounded in local knowledge and community participation.[15] Empowering Africa's youth, who make up a significant portion of the population, with education and resources can foster a new generation of environmental leaders.[16]
For instance, in Rwanda, community-led reforestation projects have restored degraded lands and improved biodiversity. These projects are driven by the philosophy of Kuremera, which emphasises nurturing and caring for the environment as a collective responsibility.[17]
Education for a sustainable future
Education is crucial for building a sustainable future. Teaching young people about their cultural heritage and its relevance to environmental protection can inspire them to take action. Incorporating African philosophy into school curricula helps students appreciate traditional wisdom and its modern applications.[18]
For example, programs like South Africa's Eco-Schools combine traditional knowledge with modern practices, engaging students in sustainability projects. Lessons on Ubuntu can emphasise the importance of collective action and community well-being in environmental conservation.[19] Students can also learn about traditional resource management practices, such as communal land tenure and rotational grazing, ensuring sustainable resource use.[20]
Empowering the Youth
Empowering young people through education is vital for sustainable development. Schools can nurture responsibility and leadership by providing platforms for youth to share ideas and collaborate on environmental initiatives. Hands-on activities like tree planting and recycling projects help students apply their knowledge practically. Involving students in community based projects fosters a sense of ownership and commitment to sustainability, allowing them to learn from elders and community leaders.[21]
For example, in Nigeria, the Green Club Initiative engages students in environmental conservation activities, such as planting trees and cleaning up communities. These initiatives not only teach practical skills but also instil a sense of pride and responsibility in the youth.[22]
Conclusion
African philosophy offers a unique and powerful framework for addressing today's environmental challenges. By embracing principles like Ubuntu and integrating traditional knowledge with modern science, we can create a more sustainable and equitable future. Africa's rich cultural heritage and philosophical insights have the potential to inspire global climate action, proving that the solutions to our planet's problems may lie in the wisdom of the past.
As we face the urgent need to protect our planet, let us turn to the wisdom of African philosophy – a philosophy that reminds us that we are all connected, and that the well-being of one is tied to the well-being of all.
* LLM in Banking Law Candidate (University of Johannesburg) LLB (University of South Africa)
[1] Oswell Hapanyengwi-Chemhuru, 'Odera Oruka's Four Trends in African Philosophy and Their Implications for Education in Africa', 5(2) Thought and Practice: A Journal of the Philosophical Association of Kenya, 2013, 39.
[2] E Mkhwanazi, 'Introduction to African Philosophy', Only Study Guide for PLS1502, University of South Africa (2019) 1
[3] Mkhwanazi, 'Introduction to African Philosophy', 1
[4] Mkhwanazi, 'Introduction to African Philosophy', 3
[5] Hapanyengwi-Chemhuru, 'Four Trends in African Philosophy and Their Implications for Education in Africa', 43.
[6] Kwasi Wiredu, 'Philosophy and an African Culture', Cambridge University Press, 1980, 28
[7] Wangari Maathai, Unbowed: A Memoir, Alfred A Knopf, 2006, 145.
[8] Mkhwanazi 'Introduction to African Philosophy' 31.
[9] United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification, The Great Green WallInitiative (2020) https://www.unccd.int/actions/great-green-wall-initiative accessed 23October 2023
[10] Hapanyengwi-Chemhuru, 'Four trends in African philosophy and their implications for education in Africa', 43.
[11] Hapanyengwi-Chemhuru, Four trends in African philosophy and their implications for education in Africa', 45.
[12] Mkhwanazi, 'Introduction to African philosophy', 29.
[13] Hapanyengwi-Chemhuru, 'Four trends in African philosophy and their implications for education in Africa', 44.
[14] Mkhwanazi, 'Introduction to African philosophy', 33.
[15] United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification, The Great Green Wall Initiative (2020) https://www.unccd.int/actions/great-green-wall-initiative accessed 23October 2023.
[16] Mkhwanazi, 'Introduction to philosophy', 26.
[17] Rwanda Environment Management Authority, Community-Based Reforestation Projects (2021) https://www.rema.gov.rw accessed 23 October 2023.
[18] Hapanyengwi-Chemhuru, 'Four trends in African philosophy and their implications for education in Africa', 40.
[19] Mkhwanazi, 'Introduction to philosophy', 34.
[20] Mkhwanazi, 'Introduction to philosophy', 35.
[21] Mkhwanazi, 'Introduction to philosophy', 37.
[22] Green Club Initiative Nigeria, Youth Engagement in Environmental Conservation (2022) https://www.greenclubnigeria.org accessed 23 October 2023.
