Developing an African theory of good environmental leadership: Integrating ukama into Metz’s African theory of good leadership

Abstract

The leadership model proposed by Metz, grounded in the African philosophy of ubuntu, provides a framework for understanding the traits of African leadership as can be applied in business. This article proposes an extension of these ideas by utilising the African concept of ukama to offer a conceptualisation of what constitutes environmental leadership in African business contexts. The article begins by drawing on key authors to outline the concept of ukama and highlights the focus ukama imparts on the interdependence between humans and the natural world. It then looks at the implications of ukama’s principles in the realm of business leadership, illustrating how the qualities of ukama-infused leadership can be translated into managing ecological challenges. The article motivates the importance of such a perspective, noting the environmental threats Africa faces, the importance of incorporating Indigenous frameworks into proposed solutions, and storytelling as a practical means of embedding these values.