Ubuntu Feminism: Philosophizing Universal Gender Justice into Women’s Equality and Empowerment

Abstract

This chapter studies Ubuntu as an African concept of the good person that can lead to global women empowerment. It challenges all to recognize that motherhood is the foundation of society. Africa moves further in this recognition with statements such as “Mother is Gold: Father Glass” and “Home is wherever mother is.” It argues that cultures that reiterate the significance of motherhood in the making of the society have social tools with which to fight gender injustice against women such as discrimination, exploitation, and all sorts of violence against women. It also emphasizes the intent of the United Nations (UN) Sustainable Development (SDA) Goal 5, one of the 17 goals of the UN in its 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development to establish a world in which women and girls are treated equally, have equal opportunities as men, and can participate equally, thereby fostering inclusive and sustainable development for all by 2030.