Disability and Ubuntu philosophy: Opportunities and challenges

In Disability Studies, the prevailing discourse is largely influenced by Western
scholars and research, which often leads to the marginalisation of the voices
from individuals with disabilities in the Global South. This edited volume,
consisting of 11 chapters, breaks from this pattern by focusing on disability in sub-Saharan Africa and employing the indigenous Ubuntu philosophy
as a theoretical and conceptual framework. Most contributors are emerging
scholars from various sub-Saharan African nations with extensive experiential knowledge of the Ubuntu philosophy. The book features diverse studies,
including empirical, conceptual, and literature reviews, which explore disability in areas such as inclusive education, higher education, open distance
learning, and technical and vocational education. Challenging hegemonic
global narratives on disability, this book offers valuable insights into understanding and addressing disability issues in sub-Saharan Africa through the lens of the Ubuntu philosophy. Each chapter emphasises the importance of
Ubuntu in examining disability matters and formulating intervention strategies. Catering to a diverse audience, Ubuntu Philosophy and Disabilities
in Sub-Saharan Africa will engage students, lecturers, researchers, Non-Governmental Organisations, and policymakers in Sub-Saharan Africa,
post-colonial states, and ‘Global South communities within Global North
countries’ confronting equity challenges e.g. indigenous communities in
Australia, New Zealand, and Canada. Its content spans various disciplines,
making it relevant to critical disability studies, sociology, social policy, international development, philosophy, post-colonial studies, African studies, and indigenous studies.