Exploring the ethics of Ubuntu in the era of COVID-19

This chapter aims to explore how Ubuntu, the ethical theory that lies at the very heart of traditional African values, can be explored to meet the challenges brought about as a result of the outbreak of COVID-19. Often explained to mean a philosophy that requires the expression of brotherly/sisterly love and goodwill towards others and acting in ways that benefit the community, Ubuntu ethics have been employed in many ways, and its relevance in many different aspects of our modern life needs not to be overemphasized. However, the COVID-19 pandemic has presented a new order to the African way of life, an order which may never be the same going into the future. It is with this backdrop that the current chapter critically explores ways in which the African ethics of Ubuntu can remain relevant in this new way of life confronting African communities. It asks: how can the fundamental moral principles of Ubuntu be appropriated in the African community today? Thus, the chapter reflects on such principles of Ubuntu as good human relationship, the show of solidarity, high regard for family, respect for authorities and elders, and a sense of religion to demonstrate how the ethics of Ubuntu can inform the best ways to live and relate to one another amid the COVID-19 pandemic.